lack of prestige for the ground pilot
Herein lies a misconception that I find from those that haven't operated UAV's. Were you to spend a week with one of these units, you'd find that ego stroking and resentment at what they do is non existant amongst the crews. In fact, it only seems to be those that haven't done it, ranting about why they are all wearing flying suits and getting flying pay that see operating UAV's as a step down in the aviation world.
I've got about 3000 hrs manned and about 900 hrs operating UAV's. I'll admit that most of that 900 hrs is less than exciting (but ultimately important in what it achieves) but those hours that do the exciting stuff make up for it and I'd swap them for the manned flying I've done any day.
Inquisitor has it spot on. The concept of "there" is being re defined.....