Intelligent Cross-Layer Handoff for Hybrid LEO-Terrestrial Aeronautical Networks

This letter proposes an intelligent cross-layer handoff management framework for hybrid low Earth orbit (LEO)-terrestrial aeronautical networks. By integrating LEO and ground base stations under software-defined networking control, a unified architecture enables robust and coordinated access for airborne user equipments. The handoff process is formulated as a Markov decision process, and a deep double Q-network (DDQN)-based method is developed to jointly optimize base station selection and subchannel allocation while meeting heterogeneous quality-of-service demands. Simulation results verify that the proposed method significantly increases service rate and lowers interruption probability compared with baselines, demonstrating its effectiveness for reliable in-flight connectivity.