As the fall season brings vibrant colors to the landscape, a few unexpected hues are also showing up at TSA checkpoints—colorful firearms. While most guns detected by TSA officers are traditional black, more travelers are bringing colorful weapons in shades of pink, purple, teal, and red.
TSA officers are well-trained to handle such situations quickly and safely, ensuring minimal disruption for passengers. In the first nine months of 2024, more than 5,000 firearms were detected at checkpoints across the country—an average of 18 per day. Thankfully, TSA officers follow strict protocols when a firearm is found, and law enforcement is immediately contacted to handle the item.
While it’s never permitted to bring a firearm in a carry-on, travelers can still safely transport their firearms by packing them unloaded in a locked, hard-sided case and declaring them at the airline check-in counter. The TSA website provides all the information needed to do this correctly.
At Harrisburg International Airport, we’re committed to ensuring a smooth and secure travel experience for everyone. Our TSA officers work diligently every day to keep travelers safe, so you can rest assured that even in situations like these, we’ve got it under control. If you ever have questions about what can or can’t be brought through a checkpoint, the myTSA app and @AskTSA on social media are always there to help.
Let’s keep travel smooth this fall—know the rules, and pack smart!
Stay tuned for more insights into the inner workings of our airport in future blog posts!
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