TSA Intercepts Over 1,500 Firearms at U.S. Airports in First Quarter of 2024

Despite a record number of travelers, the rate of firearms intercepted at checkpoints shows a slight decrease compared to last year.

TSA officers found 1,503 firearms at airport security checkpoints during the first three months of 2024.
The majority of intercepted firearms, approximately 93%, were loaded with ammunition.
The interception rate slightly decreased from last year despite a 7.8% increase in the number of passengers screened.
Firearms must be transported unloaded in checked baggage and declared at the airline ticket counter.
TSA does not confiscate firearms but calls local law enforcement to handle the situation when a firearm is detected.