Behind the curve is a bit harsh given noone is doing it?
This is really somewhere I’d say it depends. For something like @Rodread’s Daisy, steering is of less importance. For the likes of Kitemill, Ampyx, Twingtec, Skypull etc, I think maybe you are right. And also I think saying something is the only solution is a bit strong.
Deep learning at the least is a very intrieguing option. And I do think robust control is way more important than finding an optimal path. And look which subject is written more pages about.