What about the option to steer the AI pilot using realtime orders like in other shooters like arma or ghost recon. Simply click on a point in space or on a map, then via a menu type thingy give the pilot a ROE. The AI should offcourse have its own evasive action to threats like AAA. You wouldnt be in control of the plane but at least tell the pilot how to react in the terrain fly low, avoid radar, seek and destroy etc etc. the same way visa versa when flying as a pilot to control the gunner.