Culture and history matter. Aviation in America is as safe as it is because the culture of piloting tends to put safety first. As long as there is general aviation and a forward-leaning FAA, I don't see a problem with automating more of air transport.
> 'it only has to match the injury rate of in-person pilots!'
If it does, it does. I don't see the problem.
You did! You brought up the thing you're disparaging discussing!
> it's not even on the horizon
Literally in alpha [1][2][3]. Would be shocked if it isn't in service by 2030 on regional routes.
[1] https://www.thedronegirl.com/2023/08/18/pilotless-passenger-...
[2] https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-m...
[3] https://www.jobyaviation.com/news/joby-flies-quiet-electric-...
You really took it that way? I thought it was sufficiently absurd. Apparently not to you and the people in those links.