CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The Transportation Security Administration is issuing a reminder on how to properly travel with a firearm after officers say several improperly packed guns were intercepted at Charlotte Douglas International Airport in recent days.
In the past week, the TSA says a gun was intercepted at a checkpoint and four were found improperly packed in unlocked checked luggage at CLT.
Regardless of whether those passengers were arrested by local police, officials say they now face civil penalties from the TSA that can exceed $13,000.
Officials say anyone wishing to travel with a firearm may do so as long as the following guidelines and restrictions are strictly adhered to:
- The firearm may be transported in your checked bag if they are declared to the airline at check-in
- The firearm must be unloaded and placed in a locked, hard-sided case
- The traveler is responsible for knowing all gun laws within the state of departure and state of arrival, as well as municipal laws, if applicable
Passengers are reminded to check their pockets and bags before entering the TSA queue. This will help you to move through the checkpoint without having to stop for a pat down or bag search to remove any prohibited items.
So far this year, the TSA says checkpoint officers have intercepted 15 guns at CLT, 12 at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, three at Piedmont Triad International Airport, and two at Asheville Regional Airport.
“These interceptions represent the resolve of the TSA frontline workforce under any and all circumstances,” said Kevin Frederick, the TSA’s Federal Security Director for CLT, AVL and JQF (Concord-Padgett Regional Airport.) “Whether it’s during a government shutdown or a worldwide pandemic, they remain focused on their mission of protecting the traveling public and the transportation industry.”
For more information on TSA security guidelines for travelers, click here.