OKC,
We don't use the Boeing FCOM. Boeing approves our manuals along with the FAA. You'll probably be horrified to know that we use the AT without the AP, and we also de - select the AT on occasion. We do turn off the FD during circling approaches for obvious reasons, then we turn them back on prior to selecting a lateral and vertical mode. We only circle with VMC (common here). As I said, Boeing approved our manuals.
I disagree with you on the use of the FD below minimums, specifically in IAN, it's a useful tool. One of many, as long as one isn't relying on it solely and understands its limitations. I also multiply DME times three
We rely on our pilots not to forget to push the Thrust levers forward during a go around and not to allow a TOGA tail strike. So far so good ...... Touch wood.
By the way; low speed protection is disabled below 27feet. The incidents with AT de-selected, during the flare, were caused by low speed prior to 27 feet.
Apologies for derailing the thread slightly. Although; if this was a botched Go-around, the AT being on might have saved the crew from the walk of shame. As would shoving the thrust levers forward
