Paul
I think we can get lost in the technology facts are that airframes other than being built out of composites have changed little in layout in 60 years!
Technology yes and the ability to reliably lower an aircraft and it's occupants to the ground safely had to be one of the most exciting developments!
When everything is running right flying is pretty easy it's when the technology breaks down or things go wrong that we are left with basic flying and handling skills.
IR flying is actually a handling flying skill hence why in a test we are expected to hand fly in the raw! No autopilot and minimal nav!
The same goes with pure handling.
421 C highlighted the high descent rate with the PC12! As not being a spin ! How many spins end up in a spiral dive and without knowing and being familiar with both confusion could easily cause the incorrect recovery methods and hence a breakup of the airframe!
Technology and terminology is all fantastic but most important of all is still handling piloting skills which in themselves lead to correct descision making !
Pace