Lung cancer is the most prevalent malignant tumor worldwide. For patients with multiple pulmonary metastases or compromised lung function, achieving complete tumor resection is challenging, and the prognosis is often poor. Lung transplantation has shown potential therapeutic value in the complete removal of tumors, improving lung function, and enhancing the quality of life for these patients. The advancement of tumor detection technologies such as PET-CT and ctDNA, along with comprehensive treatment strategies for lung cancer, provides powerful tools for the precise prediction of tumor recurrence and treatment outcomes following lung transplantation. The feasibility of lung transplantation for lung cancer is receiving increasing attention. This article will review the history and clinical management of lung transplantation in the context of lung cancer.