I guess my point is how much stick and rudder skills do you really need to fly a modern jet?
Automation didn't save the Turkish B737NG in Amsterdam.
Airbus "automation" abandons you below 100' in manual flight.
Automation will not save you close to the ground. Until you've actually seen an autoland from the flightdeck you wouldn't believe how primitive it really is. Sure it will get you on the ground in benign WX (fog), but turbulent & gusty conditions it will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. That goes for a Boeing or the Bus.
Stick & rudder is still vital.