Hand Flying @ Hi-FL
P51Guy & Parabellum - My questions were in response to Captain Crunch's assertions that seemed to suggest that a) aircrew should not wait years until an enquiry reaches a conclusion, but should act more proactively (his V2 example). Secondly, in his experience, it seems that pilots are less able/experienced in hand flying at altitude, therefore, less prepared to deal with hazardous, low-frequency conditions.
While I realize that sims can only throw so much into the mix, the idea that perhaps increased automation along with enhanced safety envelopes is also bringing a concurrent degradation in 'real' flying skills, is a worrying one.
I'm sure that Airbus don't know what brought down the AF lads, even if they have narrowed down the possibilities, but perhaps they felt it prudent to remind operators and crews of previous directives.
Cap'n Crunch, thanks for your candor.
Regards,