According to the Transportation Security Administration, an individual from Berks County, Pennsylvania, attempted to carry a loaded handgun in their carry-on luggage on Monday at Philadelphia International Airport.
On Monday, TSA officers caught a Mohnton man attempting to bring a .45 caliber gun in his carry-on bag at PHL. The man was promptly cited for the offense.
The TSA reported that the gun contained 11 bullets, with one already loaded in the chamber.
According to the TSA, the individual will be subject to a federal civil penalty and a criminal citation.
Gerardo Spero, the Federal Security Director for the airport, expressed his concern regarding the unnecessary security risk posed by individuals who bring loaded guns to airport security checkpoints. In a recent news release, he stated that such actions not only endanger fellow travelers but also the officers responsible for airport security. He emphasized that the TSA has no objection to individuals who follow the proper protocol for packing firearms for flights. However, bringing a loaded handgun to security checkpoints is not the way to do it.
According to Spero, the safest way to pack an unloaded firearm is to store it in a hard-sided case that is securely locked.
According to Spero, if you have a suitcase that you want to keep safe during your flight, all you need to do is take it to the airline check-in counter and declare that you want to travel with it. The airline will then ensure that it is transported in the cargo hold, where it will be inaccessible to anyone during the flight. This process is simple and straightforward, so you don’t need to worry about any complications.
According to the TSA, individuals who attempt to bring guns through airport security may face hefty civil penalties amounting to thousands of dollars and even risk getting arrested.
Philadelphia International Airport reported on Monday that TSA checkpoints have intercepted 18 firearms so far this year. The agency had set a record in 2023 with 45 guns seized.
