Fear & Loading: Airlines Modifying Gun Travel Policies

by
posted on May 11, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
baggage_claim_sign-redux.jpg

Delta Airlines has announced flyers who travel with guns in their checked luggage will no longer be able to find the firearm’s case—or a bag that contains a locked handgun case—on an airport carousel. Owners must reclaim their unloaded firearm by presenting valid government picture identification at the carrier’s baggage service office. 

“The airline will now have special tags to alert ground handlers to not put bags carrying weapons on the general carousel,” according to Miami, FL’s, NBC 6 TV. Several other airlines told The Sun-Sentinel Times they were also considering a change, although a spokesman for American Airlines said, “American has not changed its policy on checked firearms. Everything stands the same.” When I flew with that company late last month, my gun bag was tagged with a red “Return to BSO” label, and it was being held in the baggage service office when I arrived. Taking possession required producing an ID, not the claim ticket.

Know the rules before your trip. NRA-ILA has some good tips to keep in mind anytime you’re flying with a firearm. The Transportation Security Administration offers others, but remember, airlines can enforce additional regulations that can delay or even cancel your departure unless you’re prepared.

In addition to a locked hard case, Air Canada for example, also requires firearms “Must be rendered inoperable by means of a secure locking device mechanism (i.e. a trigger lock), but only after the check-in process has been completed…” You’ll also be charged a $59 (USD) firearm handling charge.

Delta Airlines’ packing policy reflects that of most American carriers. “Firearms must be packed in a locked manufacturer's hard-sided container specifically designed for the firearm, a locked hard–sided gun case or a locked hard-sided piece of luggage,” its website explains. “Handguns may be packed in a locked hard-sided gun case, and then packed inside an unlocked soft-sided piece of luggage. However, a Conditional Acceptance Tag must be used in this case.”

Latest

Ortgies Pistol Ihtog 1
Ortgies Pistol Ihtog 1

I Have This Old Gun: The Ortgies Pistol

One of the lesser-known, German-made handguns from the early 20th century, the Ortgies pistol has a fascinating history stretching from the end of World War I all the way to the conclusion of World War II.

New For 2025: Taurus GX4 Strike Bravo

In a collaboration with Strike Industries, Taurus USA has launched its GX4 Strike Bravo, which combines elements of its popular micro-compact handgun with a chassis-frame design capable of accepting a stabilizing brace.

PenFed Touts Successful Three Quarters In 2025

In a quarterly update to members, PenFed Credit Union CEO James Schenck highlighted the company's strong financial position while also sharing some of his financial insights.

2026 NRA Youth Education Summit Applications Open

Applications are now open for the 2026 NRA Youth Education Summit (Y.E.S.), an all-expenses-paid, six-day leadership and scholarship program for rising high school juniors and seniors.

I Have This Old Gun: Colt-Burgess Rifle

There was a time when firearm manufacturers were primarily known for producing only one specific type of gun. In fact, their fame, reputations and, often, their fortunes hinged upon it.

The Rifleman Report: The Misrepresented Armed Citizen

Despite what mainstream news outlets would have us believe, most armed citizens are thoughtful, deliberate, responsible Americans whose foremost concerns are the well-being of themselves and their families.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.