ChrisScott
In posts abot A340 incidents I want to clarify some misunderstanding about FBW control laws.
Alpha Lock function cannot be triggerred in clean configuration. If anything it was alpha floor protection and experienced pilot should be able to recall if it was engaged because he would have manually disconnected it.
In normal law from Valpha prot to alpha Max side stick commands alpha directly which is desirable because it gives the pilot direct control over AOA for recovery.
Alpha prot is not same value when below Vls and when at cruise speeds. In cruise it is about 5 degrees.
Once in alpha prot with stick neutral AOA does not increase but is decreased to Valpha prot. In this case phase advanced means it triggered before 5 degrees may be 2or 3 degrees. So FBW will try to maintain that and not increase as you suggest.
Manual flying skill is not a panacea for automated aircraft problems. Manually flying Airbus is very easy but it is more important to understand automation thoroughly. in this case the experienced pilot had he understood the auotmation he would not have wasted precious time trying to engage autopilot which does not engage when the protection is active.
It is necessary to study each line and between the lines of Autoflight system and Flight control system. Merely Flying 4 sectors manually everyday does not necessarily make you a better Airbus pilot. When the speed is below V alpha prot you should know that side stick is commanding alpha there is no need for any further display.