DC-ATE
While I realize automation is here to stay, it doesn't necessarily mean it is safer than what we had before.
Well I beg to differ on that, if you compare the accident rate 20 to 30 years ago verse the last 10 years. Also remeber the number of jet transport aircraft has almost doubled since 1990 yet the accident rate has still dropped.
I cut my first 15 years flying out on very basic B732 (no auto thrust, no FMC, no Alt Cap on the A/P, no thrust computer) and F27 aircraft. The last 10 on a B733 with everything and I feel my management of flight is far superior than the good old days of "stick and rudder". I make better decisions and use less fuel with help from the automatics. Understanding what the aircraft is capable of and how to best manage the autoflight to achieve that is the key.