Signs posted at the TSA checkpoints at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) remind passengers not to bring firearms in their carry-on bags. (TSA photo)
MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) Police Department are teaming up to remind travelers that firearms are never allowed at the airport security checkpoint.
Nationwide, the figures are troubling: In the first six months of the year, TSA Officers intercepted 3,251 firearms at airport checkpoints nationwide. The total represents an average 18 firearms per day at TSA checkpoints, of which more than 92% were loaded.
At MSP, 31 firearms have been stopped at checkpoints so far in 2023 – most recently on Tuesday, July 18. The total number of firearms stopped at MSP checkpoints in 2022 was 58.
“Although it’s extremely troubling when passengers make this careless, expensive mistake, the general public should feel safer knowing that the TSA Officers at MSP continue to perform their jobs exceptionally well and are stopping these firearms from going past the checkpoint,” Minnesota TSA Federal Security Director Marty Robinson said. “When dangerous items such as loaded guns are brought to a security checkpoint, it represents a serious security and safety concern. Remember that a concealed carry permit or enrollment in the TSA PreCheck® program are not exemptions from this policy.”
Passengers are permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage if they are unloaded, packed separately from ammunition in a locked hardback case and declared at the airline check-in counter.
When MSP passengers bring firearms to the TSA security checkpoint, TSOs contact the MSP Airport Police to check the contents of the carry-on bag, take possession of the firearm and process the passenger in accordance with local laws on firearms. TSA will impose a civil penalty up to $14,950, eliminate TSA PreCheck® eligibility for five years and may require enhanced screening.
“It’s been concerning to see our officers dispatched to a growing number of incidents involving guns at checkpoints – just one gun is too many when it comes to keeping the public safe,” MSP Airport Police Chief Matt Christenson said. “If you’re caught with a gun at the checkpoint, you will be arrested and interviewed. You will also face at least a misdemeanor criminal charge – or jail time, in some cases.”
TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website. Travelers should also contact their airline as they may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.
Firearm possession laws vary by state and local government, but firearms are prohibited at TSA security checkpoints, in the secure area of an airport, and on board aircraft, even if a passenger has a concealed carry permit.
TSA recommends that passengers pack an empty bag. Prior to packing an empty bag, check TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool to know what is prohibited. To view the complete list of penalties, go to TSA.gov.