In space research, I think a probe is great for beginning research but on the long term, I think you need to keep manned flight to keep the public interest at large in such. I believe Sagan was 100% wrong in asserting probes are the only way to approach space exploration. The shuttle program has proven there are certain aspect to space flight were manned flight can accomplish much more than automation.
For military application, I know there are some great aspects of UAV flight. But for military use, I still think that a man in the cockpit offers one bit more of a conscience when fighting. I know, politicians are still running that show, but frankly, you are seeing a domestic build up of the military at home and one day... I think you will see that force used domestically. Ferguson right now is a point in show on the ground. As most tech has shown, it is sometimes just too easy to escalate things when automation is in place to the detriment of a situation.
I have heard the talk of commercial unmanned flight and I as well don't think that is happening anytime soon. Although cockpits are getting pretty automated right now.
As for general aviation, AOPA had an article years ago how the golden age of aviation is over. I think between the security of 911 and the economic cost, it is becoming a rich mans hobby. I love to fly anything from an ultralight up. I enjoy the experience of flight period. Although I really love flying WWII aircraft. Just about nothing stalls better than a Cessna 150 though. When that lift on one wing goes...
