Bio-inspired flapping-wing drones: Current advances, challenges, and future directions in aerial robotics

Inspired by the remarkable flight performance of birds, insects, and bats, bio-inspired drones have emerged as a promising class of aerial robotic systems. Among these, flapping-wing robots (FWRs) have gained considerable attention due to their ability to achieve agile, stable, and energy-efficient flight through biologically inspired wing motion making them highly suitable for applications such as environmental monitoring, wildlife tracking, and search-and-rescue operations. Despite their potential, the practical realization of FWRs presents several challenges, including nonlinear flight dynamics, limited payload capacity, and the need for sophisticated control systems to ensure stable and autonomous operation. This paper presents a comprehensive review of bio-inspired drone development, focusing on the principles of avian flight that guide FWR design. It examines key aspects such as wing configurations, flapping mechanisms, and the integration of flexible or morphing wings that enhance aerodynamic performance. Additionally, the review explores essential components actuators, sensors, and control architectures that enable precision, adaptability, and energy-efficient flight. Furthermore, the paper discusses advanced concepts such as tailless FWRs, swarming drones, and perching and takeoff strategies, highlighting ongoing research aimed at overcoming aerodynamic and control limitations. By synthesizing current advancements and identifying key challenges, this review emphasizes the transformative potential of bio-inspired drones in shaping the next generation of aerial robotics through improved efficiency, autonomy, and multifunctional adaptability.