As travel picks up across the U.S., the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is facing a troubling trend—an increasing number of firearms being found at airport security checkpoints.
During the first nine months of 2024, TSA officers intercepted 5,028 firearms at airports nationwide, according to a recent press release. That equates to an average of 18.3 firearms detected each day, with more than 93% of them loaded.
In the press release, TSA Administrator David Pekoske emphasized the seriousness of the issue, saying, “Each firearm brought to a checkpoint, whether by accident or on purpose, presents a threat to other passengers and our employees, and causes delays for the traveler with the firearm. 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.”
This rise in firearm detections comes amid record-setting travel volumes. TSA screened over 678 million passengers through the first three quarters of 2024, a 6.3% increase from the same period in 2023.
Despite this increase, firearm detections per million passengers slightly decreased. TSA reported 7.5 firearms per million passengers from July to September 2024, down from 8.1 firearms per million passengers during the same period in 2023.
Christian Smith, Transportation Security Manager at Tallahassee International Airport, noted that his team has seen a surge in firearm detections at their security checkpoints. Smith attributed this rise in incidents to the resurgence of air travel following the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I think the number one reason for the increase in firearms over the last two years is that air travel is getting back to what it was prior to COVID. So we’re seeing higher numbers of passengers, which has shown a correlation to the increased number of firearms,” said Smith.
According to Smith, TSA officers at Tallahassee have detected 12 firearms this year, 11 of which were loaded. He also reported officers finding an additional nine firearms improperly packaged in checked luggage.Many travelers, he said, are unaware they are carrying a firearm and express surprise when it’s discovered during screening.
“I’ve only heard two reasons from passengers why: they either forgot it was in their bag, or they’ve been looking for this for a long time and they’re glad that we found it,” he added.
The increase in firearm detections has sparked concerns from travelers. Rosalynn Flores, a frequent flyer from Miami, shared her worries about safety at airports, especially as checkpoints become more crowded.
“The times that I’ve passed through TSA I get nervous. It’s very quick and there are people in line. I’m from Miami, so the airport is very packed. Anyone can just pull out a knife or a gun and fire away,” said Flores.
To address the issue, Smith emphasized the importance of TSA officers adhering to strict protocols when a firearm is detected. This includes notifying law enforcement and completing necessary incident reports. He also urged travelers to be mindful of what they pack and to plan ahead to avoid unintentionally bringing firearms into the airport.
“We detect the threat, we stop it, we do our incident reporting, and then we kind of hand that off to our regulatory folk who do the civil enforcement action,” said Smith.
As the holiday season approaches, TSA officials are reminding travelers to double-check their luggage before heading to the airport. Passengers can visit the TSA website for a full list of accepted and prohibited items to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience.
The TSA’s ongoing challenge is a reminder for passengers to #PreparePackDeclare and ensure firearms are properly secured when flying. Travelers may transport firearms in their checked luggage, but they must be unloaded, locked in a hard-sided case, and declared to the airline. Firearms are prohibited at security checkpoints and inside the aircraft cabin, even for those with concealed carry permits.
“TSA is committed to keeping travelers, our officers, and airport employees safe,” Pekoske added, stressing that firearms improperly packed pose a significant risk. Passengers who fail to comply face severe penalties, including civil fines of up to $15,000 and loss of TSA PreCheck® privileges for five years for a first offense. Repeat offenders may face permanent disqualification.
As the holiday travel season approaches, TSA urges travelers to double-check their luggage to avoid any accidental firearm detections and potential delays.
For more information on how to safely travel with firearms, visit the TSA website at tsa.gov.