Re automation complacency. In the 737 simulator an experienced (11,000 hours on type claimed) pilot was radar vectored to a locator holding pattern for a sector entry into an ILS. Full use of automatics took place. Outbound in the pattern, the instructor asked the pilot to disconnect the autopilot and auto throttle in order to demonstrate basic handling competency.
The FD remained on. The pilot requested the OK to delay disconnecting the auto-pilot for a little while longer. Permission granted.
One minute later when turning inbound in the pattern the instructor repeated his request that the pilot demonstrate hand flying albeit with the FD on. Maybe he spoke too quietly. The pilot pretended not to hear. Request repeated by the instructor who by now smelt a rat. No response from pilot-under-test who hung grimly on to LNav and all automatics.
Instructor got the message, and asked the PNF to disconnect the autopilot, auto throttles and now the FD. Simple raw data. PNF, embarrassed, did as instructed, announcing each disconnect action to PF.
Within seconds the altitude wobbled up and down plus or minus 200 feet and instead of tracking to the locator which signified the GS intercept point, the pilot seemed to lose situational awareness and bypassed the locator with full localiser deflection.
Eventually the ILS was flown in a fashion, but was never stable. With the runway lights and VASIS coming into view with 4 kms visibility set in the simulator, the pilot looked up and then began almost frantic over-controlling on the ailerons.
A GA was made and he allowed the aircraft to pitch up to 30 degrees body angle and increasing before the freeze button was used in mercy.
Automation is a wonderful thing, but not if you allow basic instrument flying skills to erode to a degree that hand flying becomes dangerous.