Abstract: To improve the efficiency of UAV aerial surveys in complex banded areas, this study explored and proposed a design method for curved flight paths. This method included planning algorithms for both horizontal and variable-altitude curved flight paths for banded areas, as well as a detection algorithm for flight path safety based on a digital elevation model (DEM). First, a simulation system for UAV aerial surveys was constructed, and the method was tested for planar aerial surveys, variable altitude aerial surveys, and safety detection through simulation experiments. Then, the quality of the aerial photography production data was verified using actual aerial photography experiments. The results indicate that design algorithms for horizontal and variable-altitude flight paths can automatically generate reasonable flight paths for complex banded areas and that the detection algorithm for flight path safety can ensure route safety. Compared to conventional flight paths, the quality of aerial photography data from curved flight paths can also meet the requirements of existing regulations. In other words, for aerial surveys in complex banded areas, the method presented in this study allows for the automatic design of reasonable, safe flight paths and, thus, can effectively improve the operational efficiency of UAV aerial photography.