According to a recent post on The TSA Blog, at least two passengers a day are caught at security checkpoints with a gun in their carry-on luggage. According to the post, when the passengers are caught, the most common response is “I didn’t know it was in the bag.” Unfortunately, that excuse works for the TSA just about as well as “the dog ate my homework” works for a high school teacher.
Once caught, a passenger potentially faces a number of consequences. First, the subsequent interaction with and interrogation by local law enforcement will quite often result in the passenger missing his or her flight. Next, the passenger could face criminal prosecution for violation of 49 C.F.R. 1540.11 or other local statutes that prohibit possession of a handgun at a checkpoint or in the secured area of an airport. Finally, the TSA could also initiate a civil penalty action seeking to impose a civil penalty/monetary fine against the passenger for violation of 49 C.F.R. 1540.11 The penalty could range in amount from $1,500 to $7,500, depending upon whether or not the handgun was loaded.
The TSA recommends, and I concur, that all passengers double check their carry-on baggage BEFORE arriving at the security checkpoint to confirm that they do not have a handgun or other prohibited item(s) in their luggage. Seems like a “no-brainer” to me. But, if you are caught “packing” at a checkpoint or in the secured area of an airport, hire an aviation attorney to help protect your rights.
