A loaded firearm in a carry-on bag at Richmond International Airport has led to the arrest of a man from Suffolk, Virginia.
On Monday, March 17, 2025, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers intercepted the weapon at a security checkpoint while the individual was attempting to board a flight.
The TSA reported that officers discovered a 9mm handgun loaded with six bullets among the man’s carry-on items. While federal regulations allow the transport of firearms when they are secured properly, this individual violated protocol.
Robin “Chuck” Burke, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Richmond International Airport, stated, “Our officers continue to prevent individuals from carrying guns onto their flights.” He emphasized the importance of following the correct procedures to safely transport such items, explaining, “All we ask is that individuals who want to travel with their gun do so properly. That means it needs to be unloaded and placed in a locked hard-sided case and then taken to the airline check-in counter to be transported in the belly of the aircraft so that nobody has access to it during the flight.”
TSA officers notified local police after discovering the firearm. Authorities responded promptly by arriving at the checkpoint, confiscating the gun, and subsequently arresting the man.
This incident marks the second gun found at Richmond International Airport this year alone, highlighting ongoing challenges in airport security concerning firearms. The TSA reiterated that bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint can result in significant consequences, including a federal civil penalty of up to $15,000, depending on the circumstances and the type of weapon involved.
Moreover, those enrolled in TSA PreCheck may face the loss of their privileges due to such violations, a fact that underscores the importance of compliance with TSA policies.
Despite the regulations in place, there is a misconception among some travelers that having a concealed carry permit allows them to bring firearms on airplanes. “A concealed carry permit does not allow for a gun to be brought on an airplane,” the TSA firmly reminds the public.
With the increasing number of travelers as air travel rebounds, the TSA continues to prioritize safety and security, reminding passengers to review what is permissible to bring on flights.
This latest incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of following established guidelines to ensure the safety of all individuals within airport environments. The TSA encourages anyone considering traveling with a firearm to educate themselves thoroughly on the requirements and restrictions before heading to the airport.
