Computers make cool Power-Point presentations for the suits to show each other. Actual design of an airplane? Maybe humans should do it. The DC-3, designed by humans nearly 80 years ago is still flying: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Douglas_DC-3
You’re right. Assuming Boeing ever gets the 787 into mainstream service, and assuming the DHS and TSA ever back off their idiocy enough that I decide to fly again... I wouldn’t fly on a 787 for oh, 5 to 10 years - until they get the bugs ironed out.
The B-52 is still apparently a functional weapon delivery system after 50 or 60 years. Amazing.