This paper explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the field of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) navigation in complex terrains. Traditional navigation systems like GPS often fail in extreme environments due to their limitations. AI techniques, such as reinforcement learning, enhance the UAV’s adaptability, offering a solution to these challenges. By applying continuous optimization methods, including experience replay and dynamic model adjustments, UAVs improve their decision-making capabilities. This results in a more powerful ability to operate effectively in various applications, such as disaster relief and precision agriculture. The integration of AI enables drones to autonomously learn and adapt to new conditions, reducing the need for human intervention and lowering costs. As a result, UAVs are becoming increasingly vital in our daily lives, providing innovative solutions in challenging environments where traditional methods fall short.