but we are seeing them become a crutch
.. is probably the concern we are pushing.
I'm all for tuning the ILS with a close in runway change ... I think it's silly not to have basic guidance to minimise the chance of foul ups as you cite .. but is there a sound need to play with the FMS when you only have a few minutes until touchdown ?
I can recall on my 733 check to the line years ago .. the checkie had a leg and, in CAVOK, three parts the way downwind .. started drawing circuits on the box. No problem and he did a nice circuit and landing .. but why bother ?
Only the opinion of a dinosaur and I am well aware of tempus fugit so maybe I should keep my archaic opinions to myself in this modern song and dance flying world ?