1. Safety etc. is pushing airlines to minimize non-automation flying time. (especially landings etc.) during line flights
More like liability issues. We're only allowed day VFR to fly the aircraft with no automation.
2. Simulator time is either not enough, or not useful enough.
Not enough. Even less with AQP. Its all about saving money.
3. Many pilots are reporting a worrying lack of seat-of-pants flying time or general manual flying skills.
International guys might be. I get enough flying domestically.
4. Having training time in non-revenue "big" aircraft is expensive.
Very. Fuel isn't cheap any more.
Would regular, scheduled flying hours on smaller craft (jet / non jet) help any? Something like a set number of non-sim trainer flight hours every month. With or without a FI in the next seat.
LMAO! Like I said, we can't even get extra sim time.
Just wondering if such non-type hours would help any or be too different to make any difference. Would regular (company funded) practice on light craft be of any use?
See above.