Airports See Spike In Passengers Trying To Bring Guns Onto Flights

Officials with Will Rogers World Airport say TSA is finding more and more handguns on passengers trying to get through security. In fact, in August, they found a record number five firearms and all were loaded.

TSA agents are finding the guns in carry-on bags. So, airport officials are asking passengers to please check those carry-on bags before you come to the airport to make sure there's not a gun inside.

“I don’t think most people have any criminal intent but part of being a gun owner is knowing where your firearm is,” said Karen Carney, spokesperson with Will Rogers World Airport.

The record number of loaded guns found in the Oklahoma City TSA checkpoint reflects what agents are finding nationally. Eighty-one firearms were discovered in the United States from August 12 through August 18, 70 of those firearms were loaded. The previous record was 78, just one week before.

“It’s very concerning in light of everything that’s happened in the world today and in our country,” said Carney. “We are concerned about firearms getting through the checkpoint and perhaps getting on an aircraft and just getting in a secure area.”

Carney says they're not sure what to attribute the rise to, but says even if it's accidental there will be consequences.

“It’s not just a little slap on the hand, an investigation will be opened if your firearm is discovered. You will get a fine, if you are enrolled in pre-check those amenities will be suspended and you may ultimately miss your flight because you will have an interview with a police officer as well.”

Those fines can be as high as $11,000.  Some of the cases of the guns found at Will Rogers are still under investigation.