Analogy with automatic trains
If you look at what has happened with the introduction of automatic trains you can get an idea of what could happen in aviation.
Train drivers on automatic lines are now called 'train operators' who are there primarily to close the doors when they can see it is safe to do so on a cctv monitor. They are trained to try and fix the train when it develops a fault (by following instructions on the screen) and if the train really pulls up in a heap to manage evacuation of the passengers. On the 'driverless' docklands line in London there is still a train operator on board the train but they perform other duties as well such as ticket checking. This is the way the industry is going across metro and commuter services, certainly in Europe.
So by analogy in aviation you could see 'fully automatic' passenger aircraft but they will not be pilot-less. They will have 'aircraft operators' on board who are trained how to sort it out in an emergency but do other things like serve the pax in the meantime. They will still need to sit in the front with windows and make excuses on the PA as to why the aircraft is running late - as do train operators!
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