Loaded Gun At BWI Airport Prompts Arrest Of Pennsylvania Man

HANOVER, MD — A Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, man was arrested Monday at Baltimore Washington International Airport after Transportation Security Administration officers reportedly stopped him with a loaded handgun, federal authorities say. Authorities say a .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun loaded with six bullets was found in the man's carry-on bag. He told officials that he forgot that he was carrying a loaded gun with him.

TSA officers detected the gun as the man was entering the TSA checkpoint. Officers contacted Maryland Transportation Authority Police, who came to the checkpoint, confiscated the firearm and arrested the man on state weapons charges.

The armed traveler was identified as Aaron Onkst,of Mechanicsburg, Pa., according to Maryland Transportation Authority Police, reports Fox Baltimore.

Monday's incident marks the 15th firearm that TSA officers have detected at BWI Airport so far this calendar year. In 2016, a total of 24 firearms were detected at the airport’s checkpoints by TSA officers.

Authorities pointed out that firearms are never allowed at security checkpoints. Passenger who try to transport firearms through security checkpoints face criminal charges and up to $12,000 in civil penalties.

What is the proper procedure for transporting firearms and pets on flights?

Firearms are never permitted in carry-on bags. Firearms are permitted in checked bags if the following requirements are met:

• They are declared to the airline in advance.
• They are unloaded and properly packed.
• The carrier possesses the necessary permits.

Firearms carried as checked baggage must be unloaded, packed in a locked hard-sided container, and declared to the airline at check-in. Read the guidelines.

Firearm parts, including magazines, clips, bolts and firing pins, are prohibited in carry-on, but may be transported in checked baggage.

Passengers should check with their airline if ammunition is permitted in checked baggage. Small arms ammunitions for personal use must be packed in fiber, wood or metal boxes designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. Ask about limitations or fees.

More information on how to travel with a firearm can be found on the TSA's website.

»Photo of a 380 caliber semi-automatic handgun loaded with six bullets courtesy found at BWI Airport by TSA screeners courtesy of the Transportation Safety Administration