AerocatS2A, #2
An alternative origin of CofML was that it was an AA specific video with the introduction later series of MD80 aircraft with FMS and uprated autopilot / auto thrust.
The message was ‘Click Click’, do not over-rely on the automatics, disconnect the automation if situations became confusing. Unfortunately it failed to answer how crews were to identify such situations.
Subsequently the video and phrase has been mis quoted in several areas relating to flying skills and automation, generally out of context and without further justification.
The phrase was used, possible originated by Don Bateman of GPWS fame, re pilots’ over-concentration on the EFIS track line (Magenta).
Re auto throttle in manual flight, autopilot off. Many older automated systems were not well integrated, thus some auto throttles would hunt about the set speed or be out of phase with pilot flight control inputs; mild pitch instability.
Depending on system design, many shortfalls in older systems were tolerated because the overall workload in manual flight with auto thrust was perceived to be lower; arguments continue as the truth of this and need for more practice with everything off.
New generation aircraft have much improved levels of automatic integration, applying to manual and autothrust operation; thus the ease of flying is generally unaffected, and the perceived lower workload - having to think about speed control, is argued as a benefit.
Alternatively … the debate continues re effect on flying skills