In this article, we introduce a novel low-altitude wireless network (LAWN), which is a reconfigurable, three-dimensional (3D) layered architecture. In particular, the LAWN integrates connectivity, sensing, control, and computing across aerial and terrestrial nodes that enable seamless operation in complex, dynamic, and mission-critical environments. Different from the conventional aerial communication systems, LAWN's distinctive feature is its tight integration of functional planes in which multiple functionalities continually reshape themselves to operate safely and efficiently in the low-altitude sky. With the LAWN, we discuss several enabling technologies, such as integrated sensing and communication (ISAC), semantic communication, and fully-actuated control systems. Finally, we identify potential applications and key cross-layer challenges. This article offers a comprehensive roadmap for future research and development in the low-altitude airspace.
@article{arxiv.2506.12308,
title = {From Ground to Sky: Architectures, Applications, and Challenges Shaping Low-Altitude Wireless Networks},
author = {Weijie Yuan and Yuanhao Cui and Jiacheng Wang and Fan Liu and Lin Zhou and Geng Sun and Tao Xiang and Jie Xu and Shi Jin and Dusit Niyato and Sinem Coleri and Sumei Sun and Shiwen Mao and Abbas Jamalipour and Dong In Kim and Mohamed-Slim Alouini and Xuemin Shen},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:2506.12308},
year = {2026}
}