Originally Posted by exerda
Thanks for the story illustrating the holes in security.
I'll have to disagree with you there. The procedures for making relatively simple but powerful explosives from constituent parts--nitroglycerine and TATP are often cited--involve very strong chemicals that would be difficult to pass off as shampoo, beverages, etc., and the procedures are difficult enough that they're not easily done on a plane.
Sorry, but I don't concur. Acetone and hydrogen peroxide are both easily brought on board ( absent liquids ban) and can be used to make TATP with a little acid catalyst. The procedure is "mix and chill". Given a transatlantic flight, it could be done on board - or done airside at airport, and bottles of finished product smuggled on board.
Folks, these guys are willing to try anything to harm commercial aviation. Not bringing shampoo to your meeting is NOT the end of the world. Getting your plane blown up by a carry on Molotov cocktail IS.