The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stopped 5,028 firearms at airport security checkpoints in the first nine months of 2024, a decline compared to the same period in 2023 when the total was 5,073. Meanwhile, passenger volume reached record highs for the year, according to the TSA.
The trend caught some by surprise. More than a few pundits predicted the figures would reach new high water marks after several more states recognized Constitutional Carry during the same period. The number of concealed carry permits to exercise that right, meanwhile, experienced the predicted moderate decline from their high water mark above 23 million, but have stabilized in the 22 million range. For every million passengers passing through a TSA checkpoint from July to September 2024, 7.5 guns were detected and stopped. During the same period in 2023, the average was 8.1.
Guns and ammunition can accompany law-abiding citizens flying to a destination where they are legal to possess. They must, however, adhere to all of the airline’s policies as well as TSA regulations. “Passengers who travel with a firearm must store it unloaded in a locked, hard-sided case, place it in their checked bag, and declare it to the airline at the airline ticket counter,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “We cannot stress enough the importance of ensuring firearms are secured properly in the passenger’s checked bag and never brought to the security checkpoint.”
Readers should consult the “Prepare, Pack and Declare” [PDF] guidelines long before packing for a trip. TSA recommends all passengers to pack smart and to start with an empty bag. The approach minimizes risk of bringing a prohibited item through the checkpoint.
It’s also important to note that TSA does not confiscate or seize firearms. If a passenger brings a firearm to the security checkpoint on their person or in their carry-on luggage, it contacts local law enforcement to safely take possession of the firearm. Depending on local laws, the passenger may be arrested or issued a citation. TSA may also impose a civil penalty of up to $15,000 and suspend TSA PreCheck privileges. A full list of possible consequences for having a firearm (even a part) and/or ammunition detected during security screening in a carry-on bag is available online.
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