hmmmmmmm, just given the '80 knots call' thread over on tech log another coat of looking at. We can see the clash of cultures in action there.
I just want to add something to those who've been brought up in an autopilot, autothrottle and flightdirector always on company.
Don't care if you see this as pragmatic, plain old cover yer ass, duty of care to your pax or the ravings of a luddite.
If your MEL allows you to dispatch with any of the three mother's little helpers U/S how can you defend yourself if you never practice? If the loss of one or more of them in flight doesn't lead to a QRH entry: 'land at nearest available/suitable field,' surely the onus lays on you to practice this. The sim just doesn't cut it because the box ticking/checking aspect takes primacy.
What I'm suggesting is that you try to drain the subject of emotion, ignore blandishments about being a better, more complete pilot. Treat it as a piece of contractual law and as inexorable logic progression.
If SOP's, Ops Manual and QRH or MEL allow or assume you will continue flying when an autopilot, flight director or autothrottles give up the ghost surely it is incumbent on you to be able to competently and safely complete the flight????? Therefore it must be equally incumbent on you to remain practiced and current whatever the culture at your place of work.
Rob