Transportation Security Administration agents at Boston Logan International Airport stopped a 55-year-old citizen of New Hampshire from bringing a handgun onboard an aircraft.
The passenger was questioned by Massachusetts State Police after a handgun was found in his carry-on luggage March 13, according to a news release.
“Once again our officers are on top of preventing a firearm from entering the secure area of the airport,” TSA Federal Security Director for Massachusetts Bob Allison said in the release.
The weapon was taken by the police following a background investigation, the release reported.
“When traveling with a firearm, gun owners need to have a permit to carry and ensure the firearm is in a locked hard-sided container as checked baggage only,” Allison said in the release. “Finally, they need to declare the firearm and/or ammunition to the airline when checking their bag at the ticket counter.”
In New England security checkpoints in 2023, TSA officials found a total of 10 firearms, including four at Boston Logan International, two at Bradley International Airport and one at Bangor International Airport, Burlington International Airport, Manchester–Boston Regional Airport and Portland International Jetport. A record 46 firearms were discovered in 2022, the release reported.
If a traveler is found to be in possession of a gun or gun part at a checkpoint, the TSA maintains the power to impose a civil penalty, according to the release. A first violation for bringing a loaded gun through a checkpoint carries a fine that typically ranges from $3,000 to $15,000 depending on any mitigating circumstances.
Generally, passengers may travel with firearms in their checked baggage as long as the weapons are unloaded, the release reported. Ammunition must be packed separately, and the firearm must be locked in a hardback case and declared at the check-in counter at the airport.
Travelers are encouraged to contact the airline before arriving to check if any additional requirements are needed to travel with firearms and ammunition, according to the release.
