Abstract: Lightweight structure is crucial for the aviation industry. Hence, the demand for surface treatment and adhesive technology of lightweight and high-strength carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites is increasing. In this work, the research progress on adhesive bonding of aviation grade carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites is systematically reviewed. The classic adhesive theories, types of adhesives, biomimetic adhesive theories, general surface treatment techniques, and characterization for surface/interface performance and adhesive properties are introduced. Moreover, the influence mechanisms of compression molding and hot press molding, thermoplastic composites and thermosetting composites, and same material adhesion and heterogeneous adhesion on the adhesive performance are sufficiently discussed. The results indicate that the molding process affects the surface condition of the composites. Thus, the applied surface treatment should match the surface condition. For the emerging thermoplastic composites, higher energy of surface treatment is required compared to traditional thermosetting composites, due to their high toughness and surface chemical inertness. For heterogeneous adhesion, the influence of the surface differences of the adherends on both sides of the adhesive layer cannot be ignored. At present, the composite’s adhesive bonding technologies are developing towards diversification, scaling, and automation. In the future, it is expected to form a technology system of adhesive bonding of lightweight aviation components, which will play a greater role in the aviation manufacturing industry.