Record Number of Guns Intercepted at U.S. Airports in 2020, Sparking Concern Among Security Officials

A record number of guns were intercepted at U.S. airports in 2020, sparking concern among security officials.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) intercepted 6,542 guns at airport checkpoints across the country last year, an all-time high. This number is roughly 18 guns per day, and is a cause for alarm at a time when more Americans are carrying firearms.

TSA administrator David Pekoske commented on the situation, saying “What we see in our checkpoints really reflects what we’re seeing in society, and in society there are more people carrying firearms nowadays.”

The incident that sparked this news occurred at Philadelphia’s airport last year, when a woman was found to have a gun in her handbag. She had remembered to pack snacks, prescription medicine, and a cellphone, but had neglected to remove the weapon.

The TSA is urging travelers to double check their bags before heading to the airport, and to be aware of the items that are prohibited from being brought on board. The agency also reminds travelers that they can be fined or even arrested if they are found with a weapon at a security checkpoint.

The TSA is working to ensure the safety of travelers, and is taking the necessary steps to prevent firearms from being brought onto planes. With the number of guns intercepted at airports on the rise, the agency is hoping to reduce this number in the coming years.