Checking In A Firearm At An Airline

[DrDavidM]

Thanks GHF. This helps.

[lukem]

Great info GFH. I think I'll work on adding some kind of airline travel section to the site.

[Dewhitewolf]

I flew with a pistol from Newark, NJ to Las Vegas, NV without any problems. Prior to my flight, I printed out both TSA's requirements, as well as the airline's requirements. Both simply required that the gun be unloaded and in a lockable, secure case (in my case, plastic), and that the firearm be declared with checked luggage. They had me sign a declaration (basically saying the firearm was not loaded) and stick it inside my luggage. Then the counter agent escorted me to the TSA station, where they sent my bag (with locked gun case inside) through the x-ray machine. Then I was given the "thumbs up" that everything was in order.

*Contrary to popular belief, it is ILLEGAL for airlines to require any luggage to be labeled as containing firearms!* This is another myth spread by the "know-it-alls."

You may also declare ammunition, but I chose to fly without any.

Someone mentioned about Clarke County (Nevada) registration. As I understand it, Clarke County only requires registration (and qualification) of pistols you intend to carry, provided you already have a Nevada carry permit, or one recognized by Nevada. If you do not intend to carry on your person, or in your vehicle in an accessible manner, such regulations won't apply (provided you only transport the firearm unloaded, and in a secured container, inaccessible). I was sent a letter written by Clarke County Sheriff's office from Front Sight, stating this.

Bottom line, get your information straight from the horse's mouth--don't go by what someone who has no direct knowledge says (such as the guys who work at the gun store, buddies at the range, and the armchair commandos).

[1madcat]

I usually fly Jet Blue so I checked their website. They only allow 10 rounds of ammo to be checked. So you really need to check with the individual airline.
Guess I have to keep a box of ammo at my sister's house when I travel there.

[lukem]

Originally Posted by 1madcat

I usually fly Jet Blue so I checked their website. They only allow 10 rounds of ammo to be checked. So you really need to check with the individual airline.
Guess I have to keep a box of ammo at my sister's house when I travel there.

That's a good idea. I'm just going to leave some ammo at my mother's house where I stay when I come to New Orleans. That's just one less thing I'd have to worry about bringing.

thank you GHF. very thorough

[BrianB]

Hard plastic case with a lock is all you need. I'm in the military and we send folks all over with guns and we use plastic or fiberglass cases. I recently traveled to Phoenix to pick up a car and my factory plastic case worked just fine. Just declare it when you check in. I didn't take ammo. I bought some on the ground after I got there and drove back home. No sweat.