What about automation in another area - ATC.
I see technology reducing the reliance on ATC for sequencing, collision avoidance and terrain avoidance before pilots get replaced in the cockpit by remote control.
We already have technology like TCAS, this technology will see advances to further to help with "see" and avoid and also help with sequencing.
There has already been work done on using track offset and GNSS technology for enroute navagation allowing one route or corridor to be used in both directions enabling climb and descent.
The GPS terrain mapping technology can allow flight in IMC conditions below MSA. Look at the stuff developed by Chelton that is/was being used in the Capstone project in Alaska.
I see less people on the ground before we see less people in the air, even if it is just for marketing reasons, i.e. the PAX demanding human presence up front.