AI-Enabled Flexible Sensing Skin for Next-Generation Aircraft: Toward Embodied Intelligence

Aircraft serve as the intelligent extension of human capabilities into 3-dimensional space. Next-generation aircraft will transcend the limitations of traditional fixed aerodynamic configurations, evolving into embodied intelligent agents capable of sensing their environment, making autonomous decisions, acting collaboratively, and self-evolving—ultimately achieving Fly-by-Feel. Flexible sensing skins, with their unique advantages (ultrathin, lightweight, large-area conformal attachment to the aircraft surface, and adaptive regulation), are emerging as the key enabling technologies. Multi-aerodynamic parameters are acquired through in situ sensing, and artificial intelligence (AI)-enhanced decision-making is implemented via edge-deployed chips. Based on this sensing–algorithm collaborative bridge, closed-loop actuation is further realized to support functional implementation. This paper reviews the core composition of the “sensing–decision–regulation” closed-loop system, including aerodynamic disturbance-free in situ sensing and AI-enhanced super-resolution field perception, and demonstrates its applications in 3 key scenarios: anti-icing/deicing, electromagnetic stealth, and lift enhancement/drag reduction. Finally, it highlights the future prospects of programmable intelligent flexible skins, promoting the aircraft’s paradigm shift toward intelligence, efficiency, and safety.