Transporting firearms on flights

You can transport unloaded firearms in a locked or hard sided container as checked baggage only. Here is the link to the TSA Policy. The container must completely secure the firearm from being accessed, and should have durable padlocks to ensure that. You don’t have to use TSA locks, in fact, I would probably advise against it, but do be prepared for them to ask for your key or combination. I have heard of locks being cut if they are not TSA, but haven’t experienced that, and don’t know first hand of it happening. Even though they aren’t supposed to access your container outside your presence, they have been known to do it. If this happens to you, I would just simply tell them that you would like to comply with the rules set forth by TSA and be present during the check. If they still persist, then you have an adult decision to make. You can either give them access to the case, and most likely be on your way rather quickly, or you can deny access and find another way to travel to your destination.

You can transport unloaded firearms in a locked or hard sided container as checked baggage only.  Here is the link to the TSA Policy.  The container must completely secure the firearm from being accessed, and should have durable padlocks to ensure that.  You don’t have to use TSA locks, in fact, I would probably advise against it, but do be prepared for them to ask for your key or combination.  I have heard of locks being cut if they are not TSA, but haven’t experienced that, and don’t know first hand of it happening.  Even though they aren’t supposed to access your container outside your presence, they have been known to do it.  If this happens to you, I would just simply tell them that you would like to comply with the rules set forth by TSA and be present during the check. If they still persist, then you have an adult decision to make.  You can either give them access to the case, and most likely be on your way rather quickly, or you can deny access and find another way to travel to your destination.

Lastly, be sure to check the laws of the state that you are traveling to, and be ready for surprises.  Laws change and not everyone keeps up with the changes, including those who enforce them.  Being prepared and attention to detail can make transporting firearms on airlines much easier and might save you some time.  For this we recommend Legal Heat.

Next up, we will be kicking off our new series, concealed carry 101 for those who are new to concealed carry or thinking about getting their permit.  We will be covering everything you need to know about concealed carry, how to apply, what to expect, selection of firearms and more.  Sign up for our newsletter in the sidebar, if you haven’t already, to keep updated on new videos, articles, and information on CCW Safe.

Below are links to the firearms policies of major US airlines:

United Airlines firearms policies

American Airlines/US Airways firearms policies

Delta Airlines firearms policies

Southwest Airlines firearms policies

Alaska Air firearms policies

Frontier Airlines firearms polices

Virgin America firearms policies