TSA has intercepted more than 3,200 firearms at airports this year

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents have intercepted more than 3,200 firearms at airport security checkpoints so far in 2023, according to a statement issued on Monday by the agency. 

The number of weapons found at airport security throughout the nation this year averages about 18 firearms a day, bringing the total to 3,251 confiscated in 2023, the TSA said in the statement. The number represents a 6% increase from the number of firearms confiscated during the first half of 2022 when 3,052 weapons were seized. 

Additionally, around 92% of the weapons that were confiscated were loaded, compared to 86% last year, the statement continued. 

During the first five days of July alone, Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) intercepted an additional 90 firearms at airports, bringing the total number of firearms confiscated this year to 3,341. 

The agency expects the total number of firearms brought by passengers to the airport this year to surpass last year’s record, which stands at 6,542 interceptions. 

With the significant rise in weapons found at airport security checkpoints, the TSA is urging travelers carrying firearms to ensure they are following the correct procedure to travel with a weapon, which includes placing it in checked baggage and declaring it when checking in. Some airlines have additional requirements for traveling with firearms. 

“Anyone traveling with a firearm must follow the rules and pack it properly in checked baggage in addition to declaring it to the airline,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “Passengers who bring a firearm to the security checkpoint present a security risk, and there are consequences for doing so.

When a firearm is found at a security checkpoint, TSA officers have to contact local law enforcement officials to check the bag where the gun was found and properly unload the weapon. 

The owner of the gun is processed by the police according to local firearm laws. If found with a gun at a security checkpoint, individuals can face up to $14,950 in fines, have their TSA PreCheck eligibility revoked for five years, or even be arrested.