The invention relates to an airbag system for aircraft, intended to protect crew and passengers. The system comprises: inflatable cushions; a supply of air from individual tanks, communal tanks and the aircraft APU; a connection to the landing gear and the altimeter; a manual switch; an approach and contact sensor enabling automatic activation; electric lines, electrovalves and air ducts. The system also includes a second version which is activated using electrochemical batteries which operate on the basis of sharp deceleration.