CHARLOTTE, N.C. – In a display of vigilance, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers intercepted a knife and saw blade artfully concealed inside a walking cane during routine X-ray screening at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) on Tuesday, June 17.
Passengers who bring knives, saw blades and similar sharp objects to the nation’s airports are only permitted to pack them in checked baggage. The officer who made the unique discovery noted an object in the X-ray image that required further inspection.
“The discovery of these concealed items underscores the importance of our screening procedures and the keen attention to detail exhibited by our officers,” said TSA Federal Security Director for North Carolina Gregory Hawko. “I commend the officer for their sharp instincts and dedication to ensuring the safety of all travelers."
The TSA officer who inspected the cane gave the traveler a choice of returning the cane to his car, leaving it with a non-traveling companion, placing the cane in checked baggage or voluntarily abandoning the cane at the checkpoint. He chose to leave it with TSA and continue his journey. The incident had no impact on airport operations or security.
To help travelers prepare for their flights, TSA provides the myTSA app and a “What Can I Bring” feature that allows you to type in an item to learn if it can be packed in a carry-on or checked bag. Travelers can also ask questions on Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA or text “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872). TSA offers live assistance from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Eastern Time every day, including weekends and holidays.