I guess this falls under customer service...


I am an Air Traffic Controller (in training) at a major approach facility. I train with different instructors with different opinions, and this question is just to get an idea, if any, of what pilots prefer- not what the controller prefers. This question is also directed toward Airline pilots, not general aviation.

Do airlines and/or airline pilots prefer to stay on a standard arrival route- basically stay on auto-pilot, or do they like to get short cuts that can get them to the airport faster, but force them to fly the plane.

I know this may seem silly to a lot of people, but I am told a lot of airlines have their aicraft configured to fly in the most efficient way- so auto pilot is prefered, but others say pilots want all the short cuts...


Any airline pilots out there to help answer?

I would appreciate professinal answers or advice only please..
Thank you =)

Shelly