The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reported a concerning trend at airport security checkpoints, with over 3,400 guns being stopped so far this year, the majority of which were loaded. This news comes as the agency also announced a record-breaking number of passengers screened this summer, including three million passengers in a single day.
During the first half of 2024, a total of 3,269 firearms were intercepted at security checkpoints, with 94% of those weapons being loaded. While this number is similar to the total at this time last year, the increase in passengers this year has raised concerns.
TSA officers have been detecting an average of 19 firearms per day in 2024, with a slight decrease in the rate of discovery compared to last year. The agency emphasized the importance of following proper procedures for traveling with firearms, including placing them unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case in checked baggage.
Passengers are reminded that firearms are prohibited at security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport, and in the cabin of an airplane. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in fines of up to nearly $15,000, as well as potential arrest or citation by law enforcement.
The TSA also advised passengers traveling internationally to be aware of their destination’s gun laws, as bringing firearms into certain regions could lead to criminal penalties. The agency clarified that they do not confiscate firearms, but rather contact police to handle the situation if a passenger attempts to bring a gun to a security checkpoint.
Overall, the TSA is working diligently to ensure the safety and security of travelers, but they are urging passengers to follow the rules and regulations in place to avoid any unnecessary delays or penalties.
