A Greensburg woman is accused of attempting to make it through a security checkpoint at Pittsburgh International Airport with a loaded gun, Transportation Security Administration officers said.
The 9mm handgun was loaded six bullets and had one bullet in the chamber when it was discovered Friday.
Officials said it was the 12th gun caught at the airport’s checkpoints so far this year. TSA caught 44 guns at Pittsburgh International last year.
“I would like to acknowledge my appreciation to the TSA officers who acted to ensure that the woman did not maintain control of her loaded weapon inside the terminal,” said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA’s federal security director for the airport. “The fact that there was a bullet in the chamber is an accident waiting to happen. Responsible gun owners know where their firearms are at all times and they know not to bring one in their carry-on bags.”
Officials said passengers are permitted to travel with firearms only in checked baggage if they are unloaded and packed in a hard-sided locked case.
The case should also be taken to the airline check-in counter to be declared. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its website.
Civil penalties for bringing a weapon into a checkpoint can reach up to $15,000, depending on the weapon and circumstances. This applies to travelers with or without concealed gun carry permits because even though an individual may have a concealed carry permit, it does not allow for a firearm to be carried onto an airplane.
Michael DiVittorio is a TribLive reporter covering general news in Western Pennsylvania, with a penchant for festivals and food. He can be reached at mdivittorio@triblive.com.