Handgun on Airplane (airlines, airports, Amtrak, luggage)

[Fnix]

I am flying up north to PA for a few days but will be driving back with a relative. I dont feel safe driving back and staying at unknown motels and truckstops. Is it possible to put the gun on luggage (underneath airplane), what things do I need to do this if possible?

[MinuteMan]

"NOTE: Check with your airline or travel agent to see if firearms are permitted in checked baggage on the airline you are flying. Ask about limitations or fees, if any, that apply." TSA: Prohibited Items

[Bluesbabe]

Yes but only as check-in. It cannot be loaded (I don't believe ammunition is allowed at all), must be in it's own box that locks. Place the box on top of the suitcase. When you check in your baggage you must advise the clerk up front that a gun is included inside the baggage (do NOT say "I have a gun. . . ."!!!!)

You MUST use TSA-approved keys so that the inspectors can open the box themselves. However, if you are travelling with someone else, have that person keep your 2nd key. Because if you lose yours at the airport you may very well lose your gun.

I do feel like I'm missing a detail somewhere, so please do contact the airlines or airports you will be using. I'm not sure the TSA website is specific enough.

[Fnix]

I think I'll just pick up some Mace when I get there

[M3 Mitch]

Maybe Amtrak is a better option?

I don't know of any specific happenings, but would not be surprised if TSA monkeys have stolen a few guns. God knows they have the opportunity.

I hate to say, "there oughta be a law", but I think it would be worthwhile to have a specific law for TSA people stealing so much as a pack of gum, with mandatory 50 years in Levinworth if convicted...

[South Range Family]

Airlines sell handgun cases if you don't own one. The ammo can be with the weapon, as long as it is in its factory box. The magazines cannot be loaded. After you declare the weapon at the check in counter, you are supposed to demonstrate to the agent that it is unloaded. They will then place an ownship tag inside of the case. A long time ago we put the tag on the outside to let baggage handlers know that they were handling a weapon. It was known as a "steal me tag". Do your homework. It can be done.

[Huckleberry3911948]

Originally Posted by Fnix

I think I'll just pick up some Mace when I get there

people carry mace in their check in all the time without disclosure.
special disclosure is required for firearms and ammo transport in baggage.
do not try to carry anything thru security.

[Magnum Mike]

The last time I checked a firearm in, was in 1997. The gun obviously has to be unloaded, and kept in a case. Ammo can also be kept in the case, just as long as none of it is loaded in the gun. You can get a good hard case that locks, reasonably cheap and it's worth it.

[caligurltotx]

I would think the answer is yes also. Don't people go to other locations to do some hunting? I could be wrong not like I know any hunters, lol.

[nitram]

TSA told me that the gun needed to be disassembled, checked in with check in baggage, tell the ticketmaster there is a weapon packed. Also was told that mace carried on board is a no no.