TSA: Four guns in luggage at local airport in 2023

TEXARKANA, Ark. — A record number of firearms were confiscated at airports nationwide in 2023, including four at Texarkana Regional Airport.

Last year, the Transportation Security Administration discovered 6,737 firearms at security checkpoints. About 93% of the guns found nationally were loaded.

Since 2018, fewer than five guns were found each year at Texarkana Regional.

Patricia Mancha, TSA spokesperson, said the agency does not confiscate firearms.

“When it’s suspected that a traveler has a gun in a carry-on bag, local law enforcement is called and they take the case for adjudication and possible referral for prosecution,” Mancha said.

The people in possession of the guns found at Texarkana Regional were not arrested. Instead, they were given a personal recognizance bond and ordered to appear before a judge, according to Texarkana Arkansas Police Department.

Public Information Officer Kristen Schultz said the recovered guns did not pose a threat to flyers.

“[We] recommend the community stays cautious of airport protocol and situate the gun in the check-in bag,” Schultz said.

Travelers are allowed to travel with firearms in checked bags. The gun must be unloaded, packed in a hard-sided container with a lock and placed in checked luggage.

The gun must also be declared during check in.

Guns, bullets, scopes, gun components or realistic replicas are not allowed in carry-on luggage.

“It is recommended that travelers allow extra time for the process to be completed,” Mancha said. “If a traveler packs a gun in checked luggage but fails to declare the gun at the time of check in, it’s considered a violation.”

A violation subject’s the person in possession of the gun to a fine of up to $15,000, additional inspection of belongings and arrest.

Russell Henderson, operations manager at Texarkana Regional, said safety is always a priority.

“Our TSA officers here at Texarkana are very well trained and led by outstanding people, and I am glad they are here every day protecting the flying community,” Henderson said.