Can you take a gun on a plane?

Yes, you can take a gun on a plane, but not in the passenger cabin (carry-on baggage). Firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags and must be transported in checked baggage, adhering to a comprehensive set of regulations.

General Rule: No Guns in Carry-On Baggage

It is a universal rule that firearms, including components of firearms, ammunition, and even replica firearms, are not permitted in your carry-on luggage or on your person in the aircraft cabin. This strict measure is in place for the safety and security of all passengers and crew. Any attempt to bring a firearm into the cabin will result in its confiscation and potential legal penalties.

Traveling with Firearms in Checked Baggage

While firearms are banned from the cabin, they can be transported in your checked baggage if you comply with specific requirements set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and individual airlines.

Key Requirements for Checked Firearms

To transport a firearm in your checked luggage within the U.S., you must follow these essential guidelines:

• Checked Bags Only: Firearms, including pellet and BB guns, can only be transported in your checked bags, never in carry-on.
• Declaration: You must declare to an airline agent at check-in that you are traveling with firearms and ammunition. This declaration is mandatory.
• Unloaded: All firearms must be completely unloaded. This is a critical safety requirement.
• Age Requirement: The traveler must be at least 18 years old to transport firearms and ammunition in checked baggage.
• Secure Packaging: Firearms must be transported in a locked, hard-sided container. This container should completely secure the firearm, preventing unauthorized access. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock.
• Ammunition: Ammunition must also be securely packed in a proper container (e.g., in its original manufacturer's box or a sturdy container specifically designed for ammunition). It must be protected against shock and sudden movement and cannot be carried loose in the bag. There are also quantity limits on ammunition.

Important Considerations

Navigating firearm transportation by air requires careful attention to detail:

• Airline-Specific Policies: While TSA sets the baseline, individual airlines may have additional, more restrictive requirements. Always check with your specific airline well in advance of your travel date to understand their policies.
• State and Local Laws: Be aware of the firearm laws in both your departure and arrival locations. States and local jurisdictions have varying regulations regarding firearm possession and transportation, which can impact your ability to legally carry your firearm.
• International Travel: Transporting firearms internationally involves complex regulations and often requires permits from both the departure and destination countries, in addition to airline and TSA rules. It is highly recommended to consult legal experts and relevant government authorities before attempting international travel with firearms.

Here’s a quick overview of where firearms are permitted:

For the most up-to-date and comprehensive guidelines on traveling with firearms, always consult the official Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website directly.