Originally Posted by Name User

You don't need a new airframe to integrate an AI like autopilot.

Just think of a typical takeoff. After rotation we must raise the gear and flaps. Why? Why isn't that automated? Or on landing, it can easily be automated as well. "Drop gear at xxxx altitude". Requested airspeed is xxx, place flaps at x. Etc.

ATC tells us what altitude to climb to, they tell us the route. There is no reason you couldn't integrate a higher level autopilot to completely take over operating the aircraft. The pilot would be there to deviate around weather and make command decisions and taxi.

In an emergency, say an engine out, the advanced autopilot would know the runway and location and execute perfect E/O procedures. It could also simultaneously detect a fire and put it out. All while you watch.

Have you used the newer drone software available today? You tell it where you want to go and it handles the rest. I envision that will be what aviation is like in the next generation. You are there to monitor.

I personally don't see aircraft operated from the ground at this point. But a reduction in pilots required? Sure.