A Comprehensive Survey of Aerial Mesh Networks (AMN): Characteristics, Application, Open Issues, Challenges, and Research Directions

The integration of wireless devices has represented a significant leap forward in Information Technology, substantially enhancing human convenience. A notable subset of these networks is Aerial Mesh Networks (AMNs), akin to Mobile Ad-hoc networks (MANETs) and Vehicular Ad-hoc networks (VANETs), functioning wirelessly with mobility capabilities. AMNs have found increasing utility in remote and challenging environments, particularly in disaster scenarios where swift and effective action is imperative for saving lives. These networks boast traits such as easy deployment, self-configuration, and self-organization, seamlessly integrating with existing networks like cellular networks, WLANs, and WMANs. Despite the myriad benefits of AMNs, there remain unexplored avenues that necessitate further investigation to fully harness their potential. Researchers continue to strive towards optimizing AMNs for diverse application domains, ensuring maximal efficiency and accuracy. A succinct literature review of AMNs encompasses their varied characteristics, addressing issues such as routing, handover, node positioning, security, as well as network considerations like target coverage, robustness, fault tolerance, and load balancing. Additionally, it highlights key application areas including agriculture, civil applications, greenhouse gas monitoring, and disaster management. Finally, it elucidates pertinent open issues and future directions warranting exploration.