US Airports Seize Over 1,500 Loaded Firearms in First Quarter of 2024
In a recent report by the Transportation Security Administration, it was revealed that over 1,500 firearms were confiscated from carry-on bags at security checkpoints in US airports during the initial months of 2024. The majority of these intercepted firearms were found to be loaded, highlighting a concerning trend in airport security breaches.
The Transportation Security Administration has announced that its officers found 1,503 firearms in carry-on bags at security checkpoints in US airports in the first quarter of 2024.
This number is almost the same as the TSA interceptions during the first quarter of 2023, when 1,508 firearms were discovered, according to a news release from the agency. In total, 2023 saw a record-breaking number of firearms detected by officers at security checkpoints.
In simpler terms, there were a total of 2024 interceptions in 2024, which means an average of 16.5 detections per day from January to March. Comparatively, in the first quarter of 2023, there were an average of 16.8 detections per day.
This loaded gun was intercepted on Christmas Day at Pittsburgh International Airport, after a passenger packed it in his hand luggage.
This loaded gun was intercepted on Christmas Day at Pittsburgh International Airport, after a passenger packed it in his hand luggage.
TSA
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The number of firearms discovered remained almost the same, but the average rate for the first quarter of 2024 was lower. This is because there were 15 million more passengers screened compared to last year, resulting in a decrease in the rate.
However, one shocking statistic has remained constant. In both time periods, 93% of the intercepted firearms were found to be loaded with ammunition.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske mentioned in a news release that although the rate of passengers bringing firearms to the checkpoint has decreased, even one firearm found is still too many.
He emphasized that the demand for air travel remains high and security is their top priority. Pekoske explained that whenever a firearm is discovered at the checkpoint, it causes delays in the security screening process for all passengers.
The rules of firearms and flying
You can bring your firearms on flights, but they are not allowed at security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport, or in the passenger cabin of the aircraft, even if you have a concealed carry permit or are in a constitutional carry jurisdiction, according to TSA.
Instead, your firearm must be packed correctly as checked baggage and declared to the airline at the ticket counter, as stated by Pekoske.
When traveling with a firearm through an airport, it is important to follow these steps to do so legally:
• Make sure the firearm is placed in checked baggage• Ensure the firearm is unloaded and stored in a hard-sided case• Declare the firearm to the airline staff when checking in your bag at the ticket counter
Ammunition cannot be brought in carry-on bags, but it is allowed in checked baggage. However, it must be stored correctly and not loaded in a firearm. For more information, click here.
According to TSA, firearms are not confiscated at security checkpoints. If a passenger has a firearm in their carry-on or on their person, the officer will contact local law enforcement to safely unload and take possession of the firearm.
Having a firearm at a security checkpoint can lead to stiff fines and even arrest.
According to Pekoske, it's advisable for passengers to begin packing with a clean bag to avoid having any firearms, weapons, or other prohibited items with them.
Editor's P/S:
The persistent high number of firearms intercepted at airport security checkpoints in the US is a concerning trend. While the rate of firearms detection may have decreased slightly in the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, the fact that 93% of intercepted firearms were loaded with ammunition remains alarming. This indicates a concerning lack of awareness or disregard for safety regulations among air travelers.
The TSA's emphasis on the top priority of security is commendable, as firearms pose a significant threat to the safety of passengers and airport personnel. It is crucial that passengers adhere to the established rules and procedures for transporting firearms, which involve declaring them to the airline at the ticket counter and packing them securely in checked baggage. By following these regulations, travelers can contribute to a safe and secure airport environment for everyone.
