A security mechanism identifies users, so as to restrict access and operation to authorized users, such as to persons authorized to access and fly a particular aircraft. The security mechanism comprises one or more security devices to identify the user attempting to gain access or operate the controller; and one or more monitoring devices to determine whether or not the user identified is authorized to have access or operate the controller. Methods of safely operating aircraft are also described. The methods include protocols for limiting access to the aircraft and assuming remote control of the aircraft if a possibly hostile situation is detected.