Active inceptors possess the capability to programmatically modify the force-displacement characteristics of sticks, signifying a pivotal advancement in the design of aircraft cockpit controls. After showing the architecture and typical operating characteristics of active inceptors, the benefits of active inceptors are analyzed, highlighting their potential to enhance situational awareness and haptic feedback, offer variable force-feedback gradients tailored to different scenarios, enable cross-cockpit coupling, and achieve reductions in weight and volume. Furthermore, the practical application of active inceptors in various domains, including military fighter aircraft, helicopters, and civilian aircraft, are discussed. Critical technologies integral to the development of active inceptors are discussed, encompassing force/position control mechanisms, cross-cockpit coupling/decoupling control, and techniques for flight quality assessment. The insights provided herein aim to inform and guide ongoing research and development in the field of active inceptors.