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For you guys that agree with this policy about only using automation (silly in my book), arent you going to miss actually "flying" the airplane? In my daily routine, ill usually handfly all the way to cruise and usually all the way back down (unless something would justify otherwise---unusually busy airspace, weather, etc) I dont know about the company procedures for many of the worlds airlines, but i wasnt aware that they are mandating using automation at all times unless something else is needed. Thats a shame for pilots, slowly but surely companies and aircraft builders are removing pilots out of the picture. I understand newer technology has its place in todays world of ever crowding airspace, weather, etc, but still.......arent we all flying these planes because, well, we enjoy flying? If i wanted to program a box I would have studied computer science. I guess ill have to accept the changes, or just keep getting jobs with second rate operators flying yesterdays technology.
This is why the newer generation of aircraft being produced interest me very little. I could care less about how techno-crazy the newest A380 or dreamliner is. Just give me round gauges and smokey engines. Someone made a good point about the cadet pilots that are being hired. You will have to excuse my lack of knowledge on the subject of cadet hiring, etc, but how is a guy who goes from light cessna's/pipers directly to a 737 supposed to learn to be a pilot if they are required by company policy to engage the autopilot at 1500' and not disengage it untill 200' or even make it autoland? Its going to be a not so good day when the captain has a heart attack and the 400hr. FO has to actually put their hands on the yoke and make things happen.