... The down side is obvious, automation is not always available or U/S, so then the human has to take over. ...
Yes, but let's note that presence of op. ILS is not the same as automation. When it is indeed, there's a policy somewhere to fly coupled whenever poss.
So, wouldn't you agree that hand-flying ILS in any weather every now and then boosts skill to fly smoother visuals wherever required.
Call their arrival wx a perfect environment... aren't OPS departments ubiquitous parts of environment as well? Maybe worth a look?