Autonomous Navigation for eVTOL: Review and Future Perspectives

This survey paper explores the emergent domain of electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs), emphasizing the critical role of autonomous navigation capabilities essential for their effective integration and operation in complex urban environments. Pioneering in this review is the introduction of a novel six-level autonomy concept for eVTOLs, categorizing them based on their degree of intelligence. The paper offers a comprehensive review of state-of-the-art developments that together fortify the autonomous functionality of eVTOLs, with a special focus on enhanced perception, intelligent planning, and advanced control. Perception technologies empower eVTOLs with the environmental awareness crucial for navigating the intricate urban airspace, while advanced planning algorithms navigate their paths through densely populated skies, ensuring optimal routing and safety. Control strategies are developed for their ability to endow these eVTOLs with the stability and agility needed to execute complex flight dynamics. The synthesis of these elements forms the backbone of autonomous navigation for eVTOLs, outlining a clear direction for future eVTOL research. This comprehensive survey can serve as a vital resource for enhancing the autonomy of eVTOLs, steering them towards a future where they integrate effortlessly into intelligent urban transportation systems.