"Fresh" F/O on B737-800 and B737-400
Handflying:
- On departure: at least until 10000 ft, however A/T always selected, normally with F/D engaged; in CAVOK sometimes de-select F/D; this helps you to look "through" the F/D and makes you know the body attitudes on the ADI (you never know when this F/D fails for real and you need your pitch-power table in your mind)
- On arrival, CAVOK, normally at 1000 ft, disconnect A/P and A/T and fly and land manually; when the left seat permits, this 1000 ft altitude will be raised, I like to keep the manual flying skills. F/D OFF approach also makes you really look at the ADI and see the pitch you need. When low ceiling and visibility, disconnecting when visible before DH or MDH; if real bad, autoland...we are CATIIIA approved
Happy landings