Hello,
Flying for a Belgian charter company this is what our OM A says:
All pilots shall stay proficient in all 4 company defined levels of automation:
- no automation
- F/D only
- AP with basic modes
- LNAV / VNAV
Pilots are encouraged to practice their flying skills and there are no restrictions on the use of automation. However, F/D on take-off is recommended with wind shear reported.
Ab initio training includes F/D off flying including engine failure on take-off & one engine out approach in CAT I minima. The type rating check-out includes at least one F/D off approach in CAT I weather (a CAA requirement). But it also includes flying LNAV / VNAV approaches. Both should be known perfectly.
With this training & OM policy it's really a pleasure to fly (also because the destinations are not busy airports). Imo PM workload is not increased when flying F/D off, it's even reduced as the PM doesn't have to push all those buttons
But most importantly, keep having fun!
Cheers