Review on bio-inspired flight systems and bionic aerodynamics

Abstract Humans' initial desire for flight stems from the imitation of flying creatures in nature. The excellent flight performance of flying animals will inevitably become a source of inspiration for researchers. Bio-inspired flight systems have become one of the most exciting disruptive aviation technologies. This review is focused on the recent progresses in bio-inspired flight systems and bionic aerodynamics. First, the development path of Biomimetic Air Vehicles (BAVs) for bio-inspired flight systems and the latest mimetic progress are summarized. The advances of the flight principles of several natural creatures are then introduced, from the perspective of bionic aerodynamics. Finally, several new challenges of bionic aerodynamics are proposed for the autonomy and intelligent development trend of the bio-inspired smart aircraft. This review will provide an important insight in designing new biomimetic air vehicles.