TSA officers at Reagan National Airport caught a gun at a checkpoint on the first day of the new year

ARLINGTON, Va. – An Alabama man started the new year on a sour note when he brought his loaded handgun to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) on the first day of the new year.

The man was cited by airport police after a Transportation Security Administration officer detected a .380 caliber handgun loaded with six bullets in the man’s carry-on bag on January 1. TSA officials contacted the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police, who arrived at the checkpoint, confiscated the handgun and detained the man for questioning before citing him 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.