A West Virginia woman faces charges after a gun was found in her belongings at the main TSA security checkpoint at Pittsburgh International Airport Wednesday.
Allegheny County Police say the gun was found around 12:45 p.m. in 65-year-old Patricia Parker’s carry-on bag.
Parker does not have a conceal carry permit and the gun was seized.
She faces a misdemeanor of carrying without a license.
In addition to the charge, Parker also faces a heavy fine up to $10,000.
It’s the 33rd gun stopped at Pittsburgh International Airport, 11 shy of last year’s number, a record.
Guns stopped at TSA security checkpoints also delay travelers waiting in the security line.
“When someone brings a loaded gun to one of our checkpoints, it is a risk to everyone in the airport,” said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA’s Federal Security Director for the airport. “We view firearms as a threat, because the intention of the traveler is unknown. If you own a firearm, do not bring it to a checkpoint. If you must travel with your gun, the proper way to do it is to make sure it’s unloaded, packed in a hard-sided locked case and taken to the airline check-in counter. The airline will ensure it is transported in the belly of the aircraft.” TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website.