Originally Posted by
sACKtis
Handflying an airbus above 2000' is just retarded. Tapping on a sidestick does not equate to a perishable skill.
IMO, an attitude very common with those who try to find an excuse for maximum use of automation.
When the situation allowed, I flew the A320 with autopilot, throttles and even F/D off on a regular basis. Never "tapped" on the stick though. Just smooth, don't spill the coffee inputs.
I felt it was extremely valuable. Anything requiring hand/eye coordination always improves with practice and familiarity. It doesn't make a difference if your flight controls move via cable or electron.