TSA officers stopped the 41st gun of the year at Pittsburgh International Monday. That’s three shy of tying a record set last year.
The.25 caliber handgun was loaded in an Eighty Four man’s backpack.
Bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint carries a federal civil penalty up to $15,000.
Yesterday's gun brings the number of weapons stopped at security checkpoints near the record of 44 last year.
Weapons found at security checkpoints stop security lines and lead to an increase in wait time to get pass security.
“It is crucial for travelers to double and triple-check their carry-on items to ensure that there are no prohibited or illegal items inside,” said Gerardo Spero, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Pennsylvania. “Travelers who have prohibited items among their carry-on items will not only delay their checkpoint screening experience, but they slow down others as well. Don’t be that person. When you’re at home packing for your trip, start with an empty roller bag, backpack, messenger bag or handbag. Start to pack from scratch so you know with certainty that there is nothing prohibited in your carry-ons.”