hmm....you could sneek into the baggage handling area to keep an eye on the handlers then sneek into the baggage hold on the plane and sit on your pelican case.....you'll have to dress warm cause i hear there not heated and the drinks trolly doesn't go down that far.

Andy.

Yes, travelling - regardless of terrorists threats - has become far easier during the past decades and flights are becoming safer (in theory) - with faster transport and more to choose from - so there are options to take and more destinations to travel to with comparative ease. Flying is still safer than crossing a road, so terrorist threats have not put me off flying.

Still, I do have equipment that I'd rather keep in my possession while travelling via plane, ship, train, car or donkey...so I'll have to look more closely at all the other international airports and check if the same rules apply.
I've got a feeling that public pressure and financial losses may force the London Airport control authority to reassess the current rules laid down during recent weeks.

Damn it, Andy....you spoiled my plot...

You could reserve gear in advance to rent locally at your destination. (factoring these expenses into your fees of course)

Given the cost of shipping heavy boxes and the low price of airline tickets ... maybe buying an extra seat for the gear-bag would be worth while.