Initially our company trained our MD-11 and A-300 guys to use as much automation as possible. Guys were autoflighting it from minimum autoflight engagement altitude and not kicking it off until inside the OM. However, over time (and after a few mishaps) the philosophy has changed, and in fact, from what I understand, it's done a full about-face. Now guys are hand flying it as much as possible. Obviously not in cruise, and hopefully not in real busy T/O environments, such as JFK, EWR, ORD, ATL, BOS, etc.

JJ