Abstract: Due to broad applications in military and civil areas, biomimetic micro air vehicle (MAV) has become a research hotspot. The aerodynamics of biomimetic MAV is the foundation in designing a MAV, and relevant aerodynamic theories and designing methods are also gradually enriched with the development of miniature aircraft. This paper reviews the progress in aerodynamics research of biomimetic MAVs in hovering flight. At present, a series of experimental and numerical methods have been matured and widely used. The high lift mechanisms of the biomimetic micro-aircraft, such as clapping-cling effect and delayed stall has been revealed in the hovering state. A considerable progress has been achieved in solving problems on stabilization of leading edge vortex. Various methods have been proposed and become more and more mature for the aerodynamic primary design and the optimization of geometrical, kinematic, and structural parameters of MAV wings. In the future, the high-lift mechanisms of insects, such as butterfly and ladybugs, needs to be further explored. In order to fulfill a bionic hoverable micro-aircraft, more works are required on the design and optimization of bio-inspired wing as well as on the analysis of bionic flight mechanics and control.