TSA Continues to Stop Firearms from Boarding Flights in Pennsylvania

Wilkes-Barre: The TSA is still on the lookout for firearms at Pennsylvania airports. They reported stopping 97 handguns in 2024, which is a slight drop from 103 in 2023.

Pittsburgh International Airport led the way with 42 handguns found, while Philadelphia International Airport wasn’t far behind with 40. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Harrisburg International airports each caught 4 guns, and Lehigh Valley International had 3.

Nationwide, TSA intercepted a whopping 6,678 firearms last year. Gerardo Spero, the TSA’s federal security director for Pennsylvania, praised the officers for their vigilance but expressed disappointment that some travelers still attempt to bring guns through security.

Most people caught with firearms claim they forgot they had them. Spero emphasized that responsible gun owners should always know where their firearms are and avoid bringing them to airports.

Interestingly, about 94% of the guns caught were loaded. Just before Christmas, TSA officers at Wilkes-Barre intercepted a loaded 9mm handgun from a man who had it in his carry-on. The police were called, and the gun was confiscated, but the man was allowed to leave it in his car.

He now faces a hefty civil penalty that could reach up to $15,000. Spero reminded travelers that guns aren’t allowed in the cabin of a plane, and even those with concealed carry permits can’t bring firearms on board.

Travelers can legally transport firearms in checked bags if they follow specific guidelines. It’s crucial to know the firearm laws of each state you’re traveling to and from, as they can vary. Airlines may also have their own rules, so it’s best to check with them before heading to the airport.

In 2024, TSA screened over 904 million people, catching 7.4 firearms per million travelers, down from 7.8 in 2023.