How Much Could You Be Fined For Bringing A Gun To A Michigan Airport?

TSA Agents at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport stopped a passenger with a loaded handgun after noticing it going through an X-ray machine.

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The incident happened Thursday afternoon around 4 pm.

How Many Guns Were Found At Gerald R. Ford Airport Last Year?

There have been six guns found so far in 2023 at Gerald R. Ford International Airport. 

That's on pace to match the 12 handguns that were found in 2022 by TSA Agents.

What Are The Rules For Traveling With A Gun?

In the US, firearms must be transported as checked baggage only and must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container.

The container must completely secure the firearm from being accessed, and locked cases that can be easily opened are not permitted.

Passengers must declare the firearm and/or ammunition to the airline when checking their bag at the ticket counter.

It is important to note that regulations may vary by airline, so it is recommended to check with the airline before traveling with a firearm.

What To Do If You Accidentally Bring A Gun To The Airport?

Bringing a gun to the airport, whether accidentally or intentionally, is a serious offense that could result in criminal charges and potentially even jail time.

If you accidentally bring a gun to the airport, the first thing you should do is notify airport security immediately.

Do not attempt to conceal the firearm or leave it unattended.

Follow the instructions of the airport security personnel, who will likely ask you to surrender the firearm and submit to questioning.

Depending on the circumstances, you may be subject to fines, arrest, and prosecution for violating federal laws governing firearms and airport security.

It is essential to cooperate fully with authorities, be honest, and take responsibility for your mistake.

In addition to legal consequences, accidental possession of a firearm in an airport could lead to serious safety risks, and it's crucial to take all necessary precautions to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

How Much Could You Be Fined For Bringing A Gun To An Airport In Michigan?

Under certain circumstances, the penalty for taking weapons inside an airport may lead to fines as high as $14,950.

So you might want to double and triple-check your bag next time you plan on flying somewhere.

Michigan TSA Federal Security Director Reginald Stephens said:

“Passengers must remember they’re responsible for the contents of bags, and our advice is they thoroughly inspect all personal belongings to make sure there are no illegal or prohibited items before coming to the airport, “This simple act could save you lots of time and money, along with avoiding possible arrest with local law enforcement.”