Structural health monitoring (SHM) technology is poised to play a pivotal role in the design, service, and maintenance of aircraft, enhancing structural efficiency and ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft structures. This article begins by outlining the fundamental concepts and applicability of SHM, emphasizing its significance in the aerospace industry. Subsequently, it delves into the research landscape of SHM technology in typical aircraft structures, focusing on advanced techniques such as impact monitoring, ultrasonic guided wave damage detection, and strain monitoring using fiber optic sensors. The review encompasses an overview of international and domestic research progress, technological capabilities, and typical applications. Lastly, it highlights the challenging issues facing structural health monitoring in aircraft structures and provides insights into its promising future applications in the aerospace field.