The Transportation Security Administration discovered two firearms at the security checkpoint at Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport today.
At approximately 12:15 p.m., a loaded .45 caliber pistol and a loaded .28 caliber pistol were discovered in a passenger’s carry-on bag. Airport police were alerted, took possession of the firearms and ammunition, and cited the passenger on a state charge.
While firearms may be transported in checked baggage (provided they are declared to the airline, in a proper carrying case and unloaded) they are prohibited in carry-on bags.
Information about the proper transport of firearms may be found online:
http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1666.shtm
“As we continually remind, passengers are responsible for the contents of bags they bring to the security checkpoint,” said Jon Allen, TSA spokesman. “We suggest passengers look through bags thoroughly before coming to the airport to make sure there are no illegal or prohibited items.”
In addition to potential criminal charges, passengers who bring firearms to a checkpoint face civil penalties from TSA: http://www.tsa.gov/assets/pdf/enforcement_sanction_guidance_policy.pdf