The present project provides a comprehensive review of the literature related to threat and error detection. Although there are current models for understanding the concepts of error and threat, little is known about how individuals detect errors and threats when they occur. Awareness of error and threat is crucial for advancement of safety in the aviation domain. Four areas were discussed related to error and threat detection. First, the general error and threat detection literature was reviewed. Second, the physiological foundations for error and threat detection were discussed. Third, the paper examined cognitive aspects of error and threat detection. Last, the paper elaborated on the role emotion may play in threat detection. The review concludes with suggestions for error and threat management and courses of action that can be taken within the aviation domain to train individuals in error and threat detection.