TSA officers detected this loaded handgun in a woman’s carry-on bag at Reagan National Airport on Jan. 10. (TSA photo)
WASHINGTON – An Arizona resident was cited by police after Transportation Security Administration officers detected a loaded handgun in the woman’s carry-on bag at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on Friday, Jan. 10. It was the second gun caught at the airport so far this month.
Friday’s gun catch, a 9 mm caliber handgun, was spotted by a TSA officer in the checkpoint X-ray machine. TSA contacted the Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority Police, who arrived at the checkpoint, confiscated the gun and detained the woman for questioning before citing her on a weapons charge.
As a reminder, individuals who bring firearms to the checkpoint are subject to possible criminal charges from law enforcement. Even travelers with concealed firearm permits are not allowed to bring guns onto airplanes. In addition, TSA has the authority to assess civil penalties of up to $13,333 for weapons violations. A typical first offense for carrying a handgun into a checkpoint is $4,100. The complete list of penalties is posted online.
TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website. Airlines may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition. Travelers should also contact their airline regarding firearm and ammunition carriage policies.