I can't believe what is being said on this thread!
I agree! I'm shocked that this is even debatable. All we bring to the cockpit is the 'human element.' If you don't keep your handling skills current, what are you going to do on the dark winter's day with the gusting cross-wind? Since Icebreaker was quoting JAR FCL, I suggest you read up on the NASA research into currency. Most skill items are given a maximum of 30 days before you "lose currency."
The guys who practice, at appropriate times, manual flying tend to be the more conscientious of the group. Sadly, the 'AP on at 100 feet brigade' tend to be the pillows and blankets at 10, 000 feet types. Not modern airplane "programmers", just lazy $hits!
(CW, tone more than content, you've lost a lot of credibility with that post.
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