There are a few things that you will need to do to travel by a handgun on a plane:
- The first is to check with the airline to see if they allow guns on board.
- The second is to make sure that your gun is unloaded and in a locked case.
- And the third is to make sure that you have the appropriate permits for the gun. If you are traveling out of state, you will also need to make sure that your gun is registered in the new state. And if you are traveling out of the country, you will need to get a permit from the country’s embassy.
- Finally, make sure that you know the laws of both the state and country in which you are traveling, as there may be additional restrictions.
The best way to travel with a handgun is in a locked hard-sided container like checked baggage. The firearm must be unloaded and placed in a locked hard-sided container. Ammunition must be stored separately in a locked hard-sided container.
A Declaration of the firearm and ammunition at check-in is required.
If you are flying within the United States, you may transport unloaded firearms in your checked baggage if you meet one of the following conditions:
- You are coming from or going to a place where firearms are lawfully possessed
- You are transporting the firearm as part of an activity relating to law enforcement, hunting, or target shooting
- You are carrying the firearm as part of your protection gear while traveling
If you meet any of these conditions, you must:
- Pack the unloaded firearm in a locked hard-sided container as checked baggage only
- Lock all firearms containers with a TSA-recognized lock Declare to the airline at check-in that you are traveling with a firearm
- Unload and secure ammunition in a separate, locked container
If you are traveling internationally with a firearm, please check the regulations of your destination country as they may vary.
When flying, always keep your firearm and ammunition in your direct control. Do not place them in overhead bins or under seats.
When packing your gun, be sure to comply with the following guidelines:
- Pack your gun unloaded and in a hard-sided case.
- Pack the gun case in a locked, hard-sided container such as a suitcase or briefcase.
- Lock the container containing your gun case.
- Transport ammunition separately from your gun.
- Be sure to keep your gun and ammunition in your direct control at all times while at the airport.
When going through security, declare that you have a firearm in your luggage. You will be directed to an area where you can unlock your container and show the gun to security.
You may be asked to open the case and demonstrate that the gun is unloaded. Once security has inspected your gun, they will lock it back in the case and return it to you. You will then be able to proceed through security and board your flight.
You can travel on a plane with a handgun if you follow the correct procedures:
- You will need to declare the weapon at the airline counter and check it as luggage.
- The gun must be unloaded and packed in a locked, hard-sided container.
- Ammunition must be packed separately in a bag or other container.
Be sure to contact the airline ahead of time to find out its specific regulations for traveling with firearms. Some airlines do not allow guns on their planes at all, while others may only allow them in checked baggage. There may also be restrictions on which airports you can fly into or out of with a firearm.
We also recommend watching a video on how to fly with a gun by TSA’s rules and regulations:
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