PHILADELPHIA, PA — TSA officers at Philadelphia International Airport stopped a Media, Pennsylvania man from bringing a loaded firearm through a security checkpoint on Monday, March 31. The 9mm handgun, containing 14 rounds, was detected during routine screening. Philadelphia Police responded, confiscated the weapon, and issued the traveler a citation.
In addition to local penalties, the traveler now faces a federal civil fine, which TSA notes can stretch into the thousands of dollars. The agency emphasized that firearms — loaded or unloaded — are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags, even for those with concealed carry permits.
“It is disappointing to continue to see travelers bring their firearms to our checkpoints,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “If you must travel with your gun, there’s a way to do so. The proper way to do it is to make sure it’s unloaded, packed in a hard-sided locked case and taken to the airline check-in counter.”
So far in 2025, TSA officers at Philadelphia International have detected nine firearms at security checkpoints. In 2024, the number reached 40.
Incidents like this serve as a vital reminder for responsible gun owners: double-check your bags before heading to the airport. Especially if you’re using luggage that may have previously carried a firearm, it’s easy to forget a loaded magazine or even the firearm itself. This can lead to serious legal and financial consequences — and potentially the loss of TSA PreCheck privileges.
If you’re unsure how to fly with a firearm, I break it down step-by-step in my ongoing YouTube series on flying with firearms. With 14 episodes published so far and a new one released every Tuesday, I document the entire process — from declaring a firearm at the airline counter to retrieving it at baggage claim. It’s a practical, real-world look at how to travel legally and responsibly as a gun owner. You can check out the series here: Flying With Firearms Playlist
Also, make use of the free myTSA app or reach out to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger to confirm whether your items are travel-safe. A few extra minutes of preparation can save you from serious trouble.
Stay safe, stay responsible, and fly smart.
