The present work summarized microstructure, types of localized corrosion and surface protection technologies of AA 3xxx Al-Mn alloys, being the main materials for the latticed shell structure. In addition, the main surface treatment methodologies are introduced and included the “hard anodizing oxide film + closure process”, “chemical conversion coatings + painting process” and inhibitor addition. Notably, “chemical conversion coatings + painting process” is importantly reviewed. Chromate conversion coatings, being the conventional process applied on aluminium and its alloys, are the most effective and successful. However, the high toxicity of carcinogenic chromate species limited the industry application. The trivalent chromium conversion coatings are regarded as the most promising alternatives of next-generation surface treatment due to the self-healing property and high corrosion resistance performance. The commercial trivalent chromium conversion coating solutions contain the Henkel Alodine 5900, SurTec 650 and France SOCOMORE solutions. In comparison, the research basic is weak and slow progress of homemade solutions highly limited the future of light-weight equipment. This “bottlenecks” problem necessitates the research solutions. This paper emphatically discussed solution components, process parameters (temperature, time and post- treatment process) and corrosion resistance of chemical conversion coatings. Finally, the present research and future development of trivalent chromium conversion coating are summarized and prospected.