"2023 Sees Surge in Loaded Firearms Found at Airport Checkpoints"

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) found a record number of firearms at airport security checkpoints in 2023, with 6,737 intercepted, 93% of which were loaded. The top reasons cited by passengers for carrying firearms in their carry-on bags were forgetfulness and increased gun ownership. TSA emphasizes that firearms must be transported in checked baggage, unloaded, and in a locked hard-sided container, and failure to comply can result in fines, loss of TSA PreCheck eligibility, and enhanced screening.