This handgun was detected by TSA officers in a passenger’s carry-on bag at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) on April 28. (TSA photo)
CLEVELAND —Transportation Security Administration officers at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) discovered five firearms at security checkpoints in the month of April.
Most recently, a loaded firearm was stopped Friday, April 28. So far, TSA officers have stopped nine firearms at CLE checkpoints this year. In 2022, 35 firearms were stopped over the entire year.
“Passengers must remember they’re responsible for the contents of bags, and our advice is they thoroughly inspect all personal belongings to make sure there are no illegal or prohibited items before coming to the airport,” Ohio TSA Federal Security Director Don Barker said. “This simple act could save you lots of time and money, along with avoiding possible arrest with local law enforcement.”
TSA recently announced that the penalty for bringing weapons to the airport increased and can reach as high as $14,950, depending on the circumstances. TSA determines the penalty amount for a violation based on the circumstances in each case. TSA will continue to revoke TSA PreCheck® eligibility for at least five years for passengers caught with a firearm in their possession.
Passengers are permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage if they are unloaded, packed separately from ammunition in a locked hardback case and declared at the airline check-in counter. Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality. Travelers should check for firearm laws in the jurisdictions they are flying to and from.
TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website. Travelers should also contact their airline as they may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.