Post by Ceorlmann on Aug 25, 2012 12:26:52 GMT -7
Another thread got me thinking that this would be some good info to have for those who want to fly and have a gun packed in their luggage.
Every airline has its own particular policy on carrying firearms and ammunition. However, there are some parts that are consistent throughout (mainly due to TSA policy). What I have below is consistent with the major airlines here in the USA (US Airways, Delta, United, Southwest).
Firearms and ammunition MUST be in checked luggage.
Firearms and ammunition MUST be declared at the same place where you check in your checked luggage.
At least one pistol/rifle/shotgun are allowed with ammunition packed separately (preferably in its original/manufacturer's box). The firearm(s) must be packed in a hard, lockable container (it's not hard to find an airport "approved" firearms case. They are quite readily available.). It's normally one firearms case as the limit, but there tends to be nothing on how many firearms can be within the case.
Ammunition tends to be at 11 lbs maximum that you can take to your destination.
Other things to take into consideration:
Domestic flights: if traveling with firearms, avoid NYC airports like the plague. I've heard far too many horror stories from gun owners about them getting arrested and their guns/ammo confiscated just because of their presence (Bloomberg must be so proud...). Avoid other like-minded airports for the same reason. Hopefully the National Reciprocity Act will fix this, but assume nothing.
International flights: check the country of destination to ensure that they're cool with you taking guns/ammo into the country. I took nothing with me to Germany even though I was going to Switzerland because the Frankfurt airport was my final destination according to my flight plan, and Germany doesn't like the idea of anyone besides the military/LE having guns arriving at airports.
For details on guns/ammo per the respective airline: check the website of the airline. Guns/ammo tends to be put in the "sports equipment" section, but it can always be eventually found in the Baggage/Baggage Policies hyperlink.
For more info on TSA's side: www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#11
This is meant to give a basic idea that while flying with guns/ammo isn't easy; it isn't impossible. Always check with the airline/TSA for the latest policies.
I don't want any calls from lawyers!
Every airline has its own particular policy on carrying firearms and ammunition. However, there are some parts that are consistent throughout (mainly due to TSA policy). What I have below is consistent with the major airlines here in the USA (US Airways, Delta, United, Southwest).
Firearms and ammunition MUST be in checked luggage.
Firearms and ammunition MUST be declared at the same place where you check in your checked luggage.
At least one pistol/rifle/shotgun are allowed with ammunition packed separately (preferably in its original/manufacturer's box). The firearm(s) must be packed in a hard, lockable container (it's not hard to find an airport "approved" firearms case. They are quite readily available.). It's normally one firearms case as the limit, but there tends to be nothing on how many firearms can be within the case.
Ammunition tends to be at 11 lbs maximum that you can take to your destination.
Other things to take into consideration:
Domestic flights: if traveling with firearms, avoid NYC airports like the plague. I've heard far too many horror stories from gun owners about them getting arrested and their guns/ammo confiscated just because of their presence (Bloomberg must be so proud...). Avoid other like-minded airports for the same reason. Hopefully the National Reciprocity Act will fix this, but assume nothing.
International flights: check the country of destination to ensure that they're cool with you taking guns/ammo into the country. I took nothing with me to Germany even though I was going to Switzerland because the Frankfurt airport was my final destination according to my flight plan, and Germany doesn't like the idea of anyone besides the military/LE having guns arriving at airports.
For details on guns/ammo per the respective airline: check the website of the airline. Guns/ammo tends to be put in the "sports equipment" section, but it can always be eventually found in the Baggage/Baggage Policies hyperlink.
For more info on TSA's side: www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm#11
This is meant to give a basic idea that while flying with guns/ammo isn't easy; it isn't impossible. Always check with the airline/TSA for the latest policies.
I don't want any calls from lawyers!
