More Guns Seized At Newark Airport In 2023, Federal Data Shows

NEWARK, NJ — A total of 20 firearms were found at security checkpoints in Newark Liberty International Airport last year, federal authorities announced Wednesday.

According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), officers seized 20 guns at Newark Airport in 2023. It was an increase from 14 in 2022 and 12 in 2021 (see chart below).

Each of the firearms were discovered by TSA officers during the routine screening of carry-on property at airport security checkpoints, authorities said.

Nationwide, TSA officers detected 6,737 firearms at airport security checkpoints in 2023. It was an increase from the 6,542 detected in 2022.

Even if a traveler has a concealed weapon permit, firearms are not permitted to be carried onto an airplane. However, travelers with proper firearm permits can travel legally with their firearms in their checked bags if they follow a few guidelines, according to the TSA.

Here are three things to keep in mind if you are thinking about traveling with a firearm, authorities said:

LOCAL LAWS – “Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality. TSA advises travelers to familiarize themselves with state and local firearm laws for each point of travel prior to departure to ensure that they have the proper gun permits for the states that they are traveling to and from. Airlines may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition so travelers should also contact the airline regarding firearm and ammunition carriage policies prior to arriving at the airport.”

CHECKED BAGGAGE – “Passengers are permitted to travel with firearms in checked baggage if they are unloaded and packed in a locked hard-side case. Ammunition must be in its original box and can be packed inside the hard-side case, next to the firearm. Even if the box of ammunition is not full, the bullets must be in their original case. The case with the firearm should be brought to the airline check-in counter to be declared with the airline representative. Firearms are transported in the belly of the aircraft so that nobody has access to them during the flight. TSA has details on how to properly travel with a firearm posted on its web site.”

PENALTIES – “Individuals who bring weapons to a checkpoint are subject to federal civil penalties of up to $15,000. The complete list of penalties is posted online. In addition to civil penalties, individuals who violate rules regarding traveling with firearms will have Trusted Traveler status and TSA PreCheck® expedited screening benefits revoked.”

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