Man Caught Trying to Bring Gun onto Dulles Flight

DULLES, VA – A man was caught with a gun at Washington Dulles International Airport on Sunday, Jan. 15 after Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers detected him trying to carry it past a security checkpoint. The .45 caliber handgun was not loaded, however the carry-on bag also contained a magazine with five bullets along with five additional bullets that were loose in the same bag, according to TSA.

TSA officers detected the gun among the man’s carry-on items as he was entering the airport checkpoint. TSA officers contacted the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Police who responded to the checkpoint, confiscated the firearm and cited the man on weapons charges.

TSA reminded travelers in a statement that firearms, firearm parts and ammunition—are not permitted in carry-on bags, but can be transported in checked bags if they are unloaded, properly packed and declared to the airline. Travelers who bring firearms to the checkpoint are subject to possible criminal charges from law enforcement and civil penalties from TSA of up to $12,000.

TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its web site here. Airlines may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition. Travelers should also contact their airline regarding firearm and ammunition carriage policies.

Photo courtesy of TSA