Stringent security restrictions imposed in response to an alleged terrorist plot led to chaos at UK airports, with knock-on effects worldwide. For several days in mid August 2006, the UK's terrorist threat assessment was 'critical', suggesting that an attack was expected imminently. Virtually nothing was allowed into the passenger compartment, and what few possessions were permitted had to be carried in a clear plastic bag, while all passengers were searched. The simple truth is that the threat from terrorism is real, regardless of how small it is for individuals. The Security of Aircraft in the Future European Environment (SAFEE) Group, a partnership of manufacturers and academics, is suggesting a number of methods that provide a more holistic approach to security, including more systems at airports, and actually onboard the aircraft. An on-board threat-detection system, possibly using CCTV and image analysis, is being developed. Advanced studies in behaviour and voice recognition that could be used to locate suspicious individuals are being carried out. An automatic guidance systems have also been proposed that, in the event of a hijack, would take control, and fly the plane to the nearest airport safely. These, however, would be of no use in the event of a mid-air explosion. Other measures could be taken within the airport too. Chemical detectors such as the zNose from Electronic Sensor Technology could detect tri-cycloacetone peroxide (TATP) explosives, which were used in terrorism attempts before. SAFEE's innovations could soon provide an additional layer of security on the aircraft.