The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) seized 6,542 weapons at airport checkpoints nationwide last year. The 2022 figure for US airport security was a record high for firearms seized at American airports, which concerns many.
TSA chief David Pekoske said the figure "truly mirrors" the situation in society, where more people are carrying guns nowadays, AP News reported.
Since 2010, there have been more firearms seized at US travel airport inspections each year, except in the pandemic-wrecked 2020. Guns have been intercepted from Burbank, California, to Bangor, Maine. Pekoske said it happens more at larger airports in gun-friendly states.
Dallas, Austin, Houston, three Florida airports, Nashville, Tennessee, Atlanta, Phoenix, and Denver, were among the top 10 gun interceptions in 2022.
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Pekoske isn't sure whether the "I forgot" explanation of those caught is always truthful. Nevertheless, he said it must end.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation collects FBI statistics on weapon sale background checks. In 2000, there were a little more than 7 million people, and there were around 16.4 million people in 2017. The numbers have risen even more during the COVID-19 pandemic, as per a VOA article.
Possible Penalties for Intercepted Firearms at US Airport
US airport security may arrest or confiscate the firearm. The laws of the locality and the state have a big impact on the consequences. The gun may sometimes be given to a companion who isn't traveling with them, and the passenger is then free to continue their trip.
Unloaded firearms in US travel may be packed in checked luggage with the proper precautions taken.
This 2023, TSA personnel have prevented the entry of 14 weapons onto aircraft so far, 13 of which were loaded, per Fox News.
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