Originally Posted by
Simply_Fly
As we move into the future of rotary wing operations, automation will become more and more a part of the machines we fly. I think this is great, but also a double edge sword. Too much reliance and core skills will slowly disappear - not a good thing IMO. Automation is just another skillset that will need attention while maintaining the ability to take over and hand fly when needed. At least (I hope) this will mean pilots will be needed for a long time yet...
Helicopters without governors (AKA Hugues 300...) now FADEC controlled engine, is it a double edge sword?, not really as long as the new system that replaces the former pilot task is designed in a way that is so reliable that the former core skill will never be required again.
Will it remove some of the flying fun, yes, just as it is more fun to drive a stick shift car than a CVT transmission.
I guess the hardest part to surender will be the "the ability to take over and hand fly when needed" like you said.
but it will probably come once we can qualify it like the rest of it.