TSA Prevents Loaded Handgun from Boarding Flight at Norfolk Airport

By Ivan PetrenkoJun 24, 2024 10:32 AMNews
Share:
Handgun with bullets on a textured surface
Confiscated loaded handgun and ammunition from passenger. Source: unsplash

On June 20, TSA officers at Norfolk International Airport stopped a Virginia Beach man from boarding a flight with a loaded .45 caliber handgun. The firearm, containing eight bullets, one of which was in the chamber, was found during a routine X-ray check. Additionally, 16 more bullets were found in the man’s carry-on bag.

The weapon was detected as the man passed through the security checkpoint. Local police were called to confiscate the gun and issued a citation for the weapons charge. TSA Federal Security Director Robin "Chuck" Burke emphasized the importance of not bringing firearms to checkpoints, especially during the busy summer travel period, as it poses a risk to travelers and slows down the screening process.

Recently, Norfolk International Airport has experienced record-high checkpoint volumes. On June 16, a record was set when 11,104 people were screened in a single day. Despite the high volume, TSA officers remain vigilant and effective in their duties, as highlighted by Burke’s commendation of the officers’ alertness in preventing the firearm from boarding.

The incident will be forwarded to the Norfolk Commonwealth’s Attorney for potential criminal prosecution. In addition to the criminal citation, the man faces a substantial civil penalty from TSA, which can reach up to $15,000 depending on circumstances. The confiscation highlights TSA's strict policies on firearms at security checkpoints.

Travelers are reminded that firearms are only permitted in checked baggage, unloaded, and in a hard-sided locked case, which must be declared at the airline check-in counter. TSA provides detailed guidelines on its website regarding the proper procedure for traveling with firearms. It's crucial for gun owners to be aware of local firearm laws and airline policies to avoid severe penalties.

In 2023, TSA officers nationwide caught 6,735 firearms at airport security checkpoints, with 93 percent of them loaded. Norfolk International Airport has seen a significant number of firearms confiscated over the years, emphasizing the ongoing need for vigilant security measures.

Ensuring firearms are transported correctly and legally is not only a matter of following the law but also a critical aspect of maintaining safety and efficiency in airport operations.

Top Articles
Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Not Just a Suitcase: My Personal Checklist for Smart Travelers in 2025

Mar 3, 2025 18:00 PM
Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Practical Eco-Friendly Travel Solutions for Sustainable Tourism

Feb 14, 2025 15:00 PM

Top Tips for Securing Your Luggage and Preventing Loss

Feb 7, 2025 14:00 PM

Your Guide to Hand Luggage and Baggage Rules

Feb 4, 2025 20:00 PM
More News
Seating area inside Dublin Airport lounge overlooking runway with international aircraft in view

Dublin Airport Broadens Global Reach for Summer 2025

Mar 29, 2025 13:43 PM
A passenger taps their card at a train station ticket barrier using contactless payment

Ticket Office Cuts Raise Travel Concerns

Mar 29, 2025 11:27 AM

Brussels Airlines Unveils Refined Inflight Dining

Mar 29, 2025 09:36 AM

Southern Italy Rail Upgrades to Disrupt Travel

Mar 29, 2025 07:41 AM
flydubai aircraft on runway with mountain backdrop

flydubai Restores Pisa Flights Ahead of Summer

Mar 29, 2025 05:29 AM
Man participating in a public protest or demonstration, facing another person in conversation

Easter Travel at Risk Amid Heathrow PRM Staff Strike

Mar 29, 2025 03:34 AM
Silhouettes of travellers waiting at an airport terminal during sunset

Edinburgh Airport Unveils Passenger-Focused Upgrades for Summer

Mar 28, 2025 23:42 PM
A quiet British railway station with footbridge and empty platforms on a cloudy day

Historic Rail Celebrations Unlock New Travel Routes Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 20:38 PM
Tail fins of Iberia aircraft parked at Madrid-Barajas Airport on a clear day

Airline Alliance Expands Travel Options Between Spain and Argentina

Mar 28, 2025 18:24 PM

Benidorm Reinvents Itself as Eco-Friendly Holiday Destination

Mar 28, 2025 16:43 PM

Air France Adds Hotel-Style Bedding to Business Class for Long-Haul Flights

Mar 28, 2025 14:37 PM
Passengers at London King’s Cross station beside LNER and other trains under a large arched roof

LNER Opens Advance Ticket Sales for Summer 2025 Travel Across the UK

Mar 28, 2025 12:26 PM
Jet2holidays airplane flying low over a coastal road near a populated area with parked vehicles and scenic green hills

Jet2 Adds Norway Fjord Trips from Newcastle and Leeds Bradford

Mar 28, 2025 10:50 AM
Dark storm clouds forming in the sky before heavy rainfall

Polar Vortex Raises Storm Risk for UK Travelers

Mar 28, 2025 02:41 AM
easyJet aircraft parked at airport gate on a sunny day

easyJet Expands Inflight Services for Summer Travellers

Mar 28, 2025 00:39 AM

Delays Expected on Northern Italy Rail Routes

Mar 27, 2025 22:45 PM

Jet2 Opening New Travel Horizons With Expanded Winter 2025/26 Routes from Newcastle

Mar 27, 2025 20:28 PM
People walking along a historic street in central Torino at sunset

Torino Opens to Travelers as 2025 European Capital of Smart Tourism

Mar 27, 2025 18:33 PM
Ryanair plane landing at sunset at Manchester Airport

Manchester Expands African Flight Options

Mar 27, 2025 16:46 PM
Young woman using smartphone at a European train station

Interrail Booking Becomes Effortless with New Digital System

Mar 27, 2025 14:29 PM
Emirates A380 aircraft taxiing at Sydney Airport during sunset

Emirates Marks 25 Years with Enhanced Sydney Travel

Mar 27, 2025 12:31 PM
A First Class train operated by Transport for Wales approaching a station through a residential area

Michelin-Level Dining on Welsh Rails

Mar 27, 2025 10:44 AM

Travel Disruptions Expected as Helsinki Airport Protest Approaches

Mar 27, 2025 08:27 AM

Heavy Fog Disrupts Transport in Southern England

Mar 27, 2025 06:32 AM
Airplane with Star Alliance livery parked at gate at the airport

Star Alliance and ÖBB Partner to Boost Train-Flight Integration

Mar 26, 2025 23:37 PM
Dark railway tunnel with visible train tracks leading to a lit station exit

Weekend Rail Works to Disrupt Derbyshire Routes

Mar 26, 2025 21:41 PM