DAYTON, Ohio – Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at Dayton International Airport (DAY) prevented two loaded firearms from making it past security checkpoints last week in separate incidents just days apart.
According to officials, the first firearm was detected on Monday, Feb. 3, around 5:30 a.m., and the second on Friday, Feb. 7, around 8 p.m. During routine screening, TSA officers identified a handgun inside carry-on luggage using X-ray technology. Both firearms were loaded.
Following standard protocol, Dayton Airport Police were immediately alerted in both cases. The passengers involved were removed from the checkpoint area and could face law enforcement action depending on state and local regulations.
TSA Issues Reminder on Firearm Rules
Ohio TSA Federal Security Director Donald Barker emphasized the dangers of bringing firearms to airport security checkpoints.
“Bringing a firearm to the checkpoint is a careless, expensive mistake that endangers other passengers,” Barker said. “Passengers should start with an empty bag when packing to ensure they are not bringing any prohibited items to the checkpoint, and review guidance on the safe and legal way to transport a firearm if they need to do so.”
These two incidents mark the first firearm detections at DAY checkpoints in 2025. Last year, TSA intercepted seven firearms at Dayton’s airport.
Consequences for Firearm Violations at TSA Checkpoints
Passengers found with firearms at TSA security checkpoints face serious penalties beyond potential arrest. TSA can issue a civil fine of up to $15,000, revoke TSA PreCheck® eligibility for at least five years, and conduct enhanced screening to rule out additional security threats.
While firearms are prohibited in carry-on luggage, passengers may legally transport them in checked baggage if they adhere to strict regulations, including:
- The firearm must be unloaded
- It must be secured in a locked hard-sided case
- It must be declared at the airline check-in counter
TSA urges travelers to check both state and local firearm possession laws before flying, as regulations vary across jurisdictions.
Firearm Seizures at Ohio Airports
TSA has tracked firearm detections at Ohio airports over the past five years, with Dayton International Airport seeing seven firearm cases in 2024. Other major airports in Ohio recorded higher numbers last year, including:
| Airport | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Hopkins (CLE) | 31 | 38 | 35 | 43 | 19 |
| John Glenn Columbus (CMH) | 48 | 55 | 40 | 33 | 24 |
| Akron-Canton (CAK) | 3 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 4 |
| Dayton International (DAY) | 7 | 8 | 13 | 4 | 1 |
| Rickenbacker (LCK) | 3 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
| Toledo Express (TOL) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
TSA provides detailed guidance on its website regarding the proper procedures for traveling with firearms and encourages passengers to check with their airline for any additional restrictions.
Ongoing Security Efforts
TSA officers remain on high alert as firearm seizures at security checkpoints continue to be a concern nationwide. Officials remind travelers that attempting to bring a firearm through airport security will result in serious consequences, including possible arrest and steep fines.
For more information on firearm transportation rules, passengers can visit TSA.gov or contact their airline directly.