That’s what the TSA would like to see happen for people caught with firearms at the Pittsburg Airport. The TSA stated that they are “highly concerned” over the increase in firearms being found in carry-on bags this year.
To date, they’ve found 27 firearms this year, including five guns that were found over six days a recent week. And I’d be willing to bet, all of those were people that forgot the gun was in the bag.
Do I agree with the TSA in that this is a “gun epidemic?” The TSA found Twenty-seven firearms over 270 days. I wouldn’t say that is an epidemic.
Do I agree with the TSA in that this is easily preventable? Yes.
As a responsible gun owner, you should be aware of where your firearms are at all times. I fly about every two weeks, and I still go through my carry-on bag every time, even if I “know” I haven’t had a gun in the bag since the last flight. I empty the bag each time, search for any loose rounds and then repack. That’s all you have to do.
Taking a few extra minutes to ensure you can breeze through security is well worth it, especially since the TSA is suggesting to the local authorities that they should revoke the concealed carry permits of people caught with firearms at the Pittsburg Airport.
On top of that, the fines can range from $3,000 to $14,000. And I’m willing to bet it will be a headache trying to get your gun back.