[kozak]

I don't buy into this logic. If you are able to intervene (i.e. suddenly take control of a large semi at its full kinetic energy in a life-critical situation), then you need skills of the same complexity as an existing truck driver. If you are not able to intervene in a tough situation, then the truck better be riding empty (with a procedure, for situations it can't resolve on its own, to stop and wait for support personnel to arrive on a car).

[a3n]

Yes, you do need those skills, but they are easier to put into someone off the street who has already spent years driving. People who have spent years flying are rare.

[kozak]

Training cycle for airline pilots is surprisingly short, less than a year if I'm not mistaken. It's just expensive because of all the gadgets involved.