Fighter, say, might open a real can of worms (9)

I believe the answer is:

aeroplane

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'fighter say might' is the definition.
(I know that fighter is a type of aeroplane)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for aeroplane that I've seen before include "Fixed-wing aircraft" , "Flying vehicle" , "crate?" , "Lancaster?" , "Flying craft" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app