  Aerial platforms are expected to deliver enhanced and seamless connectivity
in the fifth generation (5G) wireless networks and beyond (B5G). This is
generally achievable by supporting advanced onboard communication features
embedded in heavy and energy-intensive equipment. Alternatively, reconfigurable
smart surfaces (RSS), which smartly exploit/recycle signal reflections in the
environment, are increasingly being recognized as a new wireless communication
paradigm to improve communication links. In fact, their reduced cost, low power
use, light weight, and flexible deployment make them an attractive candidate
for integration with 5G/B5G technologies. In this article, we discuss
comprehensive approaches to the integration of RSS in aerial platforms. First,
we present a review of RSS technology, its operations and types of
communication. Next, we describe how RSS can be used in aerial platforms, and
we propose a control architecture workflow. Then, several potential use cases
are presented and discussed. Finally, associated research challenges are
identified.
