Loaded gun found in Florida man’s carry-on at Richmond International Airport

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- A loaded gun was found in the carry-on of a Florida man by Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Richmond International Airport on Sunday.

According to the administration, a Florida man was stopped by TSA officers at Richmond International Airport when they found a handgun at the security checkpoint on Sunday, April 27.

Officials said the gun was loaded with five bullets and was among the man's carry-on items.

TSA noted that bringing a gun to an airport checkpoint carries a federal civil penalty. Civil penalties for bringing a weapon into a checkpoint can reach up to $15,000, depending on the specific weapon and the circumstances.

Even though a traveler may have a concealed carry permit, TSA said it does not allow for a firearm to be carried onto an airplane. In addition, those enrolled in the TSA PreCheck program would lose their TSA PreCheck privileges if they bring a gun to a checkpoint.

When a gun is detected in the checkpoint X-ray unit, TSA said the conveyor belt is stopped, and the police are notified. Police remove the carry-on bag from the X-ray unit.

According to TSA, police determine whether a traveler is arrested or issued a criminal citation.

Firearm possession laws vary by state and locality, and passengers should make sure that they are not violating any local firearm laws. Travelers should also contact their airline, as they may have additional requirements for traveling with firearms and ammunition.

Anyone who is unsure if an item should be packed in a carry-on bag, checked bag, either or neither can download the free myTSA app, which has a “What can I bring?” feature where you can type in the item to find out if it can fly. Or ask on Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA. Travelers may send a question by texting “Travel” to 275-872.