Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officials have reported a concerning number of firearm interceptions at Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV), with seven firearms stopped at security checkpoints so far this year, six of which were loaded.
“Make sure your firearm is not in your carry-on nor on your person before you enter the security checkpoint,” advised Sari Koshetz, a TSA spokesperson. She highlighted the gravity of the situation by noting that the majority of these intercepted firearms were not only loaded but had ammunition ready in the chamber, posing a significant risk of accidental discharge.
Travelers intending to fly with firearms are reminded to store them unloaded in a locked, hard-sided case within checked baggage, declaring them to the airline at check-in. The legal responsibilities associated with transporting firearms, including adherence to local laws at both departure and arrival destinations, rest solely on the traveler.
Recent incidents at SHV include a 44-year-old man who was stopped with a loaded Springfield Armory Hellcat while en route to Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) and, on a separate occasion, a 35-year-old woman with a loaded Ruger LC9.
Reflecting on broader trends, Koshetz shared that last year, Louisiana airports collectively saw 138 firearms brought to security checkpoints, with SHV accounting for 16 of these incidents. “So far this year we have stopped 57 firearms across the state,” she stated, suggesting a troubling increase for this year.
The TSA has maintained a strict no-tolerance policy toward firearms in carry-on baggage. Offenders face severe repercussions, including arrests, court appearances, and substantial civil penalties up to $15,000. Those enrolled in TSA PreCheck risk losing their privileges, potentially permanently.
Statewide, the current year-to-date totals include 34 firearms intercepted at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, seven each at SHV and Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport, among others. Koshetz emphasized the critical role of TSA officers in ensuring that none of these firearms entered an aircraft cabin, maintaining safety for all passengers.
This rise in firearm interceptions underscores the ongoing challenges and the essential vigilance required by TSA personnel to prevent potential tragedies in air travel.