Columbus Airport's Policy On Concealed Carry: What You Need Know

In March 2017, a new law came into effect in Ohio, modifying the prohibition of concealed-carry firearms in public areas of airport terminals. This means that John Glenn Columbus International Airport allows firearms in unsecured areas, such as baggage claim and ticketing areas, but not past TSA checkpoints. Passengers can travel with firearms in checked baggage if they are unloaded, packed separately from ammunition, and declared at the airline check-in counter.

Ohio's Senate Bill 199 allows firearms in unsecured areas of airports

Ohio's Senate Bill 199, which came into effect on March 21, 2017, allows firearms in unsecured areas of airports. The bill modifies the prohibition of concealed-carry firearms in public areas of airport terminals, allowing firearms in areas such as baggage claim and the ticketing area, but not beyond TSA checkpoints.

The bill faced opposition from several organisations, including the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Council of Retail Merchants, Ohio Manufacturer's Association, Ohio Municipal League, Ohio Prosecuting Attorney's Association, and Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police. Despite this, it passed with a vote of 68-25 in the House and 22-8 in the Senate.

The bill also allows colleges and universities to decide whether to permit firearms on campus. Columbus State Community College, for example, has stated that it does not plan to allow firearms on campus. However, it will comply with the part of the law that permits license holders to store their firearms in their parked cars, provided they are locked in the trunk or glove compartment.

It is important to note that while Senate Bill 199 allows firearms in unsecured areas of airports, travellers must still comply with TSA regulations when transporting firearms. Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container, packed separately from ammunition, and declared at the airline check-in counter.

Firearms must be transported in checked baggage only

To transport a firearm in your checked baggage, it must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container. The container must completely secure the firearm and prevent access. Locked cases that can be easily opened are not permitted. It is important to note that the container the firearm was purchased in may not adequately secure the firearm during transport. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock, unless TSA personnel request access to ensure compliance with regulations.

When checking in your baggage, you must declare the firearm to the airline. Ask your airline about any limitations or additional requirements they may have for travelling with firearms. It is also important to comply with the laws concerning firearm possession in the jurisdictions you are flying to and from, as these may vary by local, state, and international governments.

By following these regulations and properly preparing, packing, and declaring your firearm, you can help ensure a smooth and efficient screening process at the airport.

Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container

The TSA rules state that firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container and transported as checked baggage only. The container must completely secure the firearm from being accessed. Locked cases that can be easily opened are not permitted. The firearm must be declared to the airline when checking your bag at the ticket counter. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock unless TSA personnel request otherwise.

It is important to note that bringing an unloaded firearm with accessible ammunition to the security checkpoint carries the same penalty as bringing a loaded firearm. Firearm parts, including magazines, clips, bolts, and firing pins, are prohibited in carry-on baggage but may be transported in checked baggage. Replica firearms may also be transported in checked baggage only.

Travellers should be aware of the firearm laws in the jurisdictions they are flying to and from, as these may vary. It is recommended to check the TSA website for the most up-to-date information on federal gun laws and packing instructions before travelling with a firearm.

Firearms must be declared to the airline at check-in

In the United States, firearm possession laws vary by state and locality. In Ohio, a law that took effect in March 2017 modified the prohibition of concealed-carry firearms in public areas of airport terminals. This means that firearms are allowed in unsecured areas of the airport, such as the baggage claim and ticketing areas, but not past TSA checkpoints.

If you are travelling with a firearm, it must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container, with the firearm and ammunition stored separately. It must be transported as checked baggage and declared to the airline at check-in. This applies to both domestic and international travel.

When declaring your firearm, you must inform the airline each time you present it for transport as checked baggage. You should also ask your airline about any limitations or fees that may apply. Only the passenger should retain the key or combination to the lock unless TSA personnel request the key to open the firearm container to ensure compliance with TSA regulations.

It is important to note that bringing an unloaded firearm with accessible ammunition to the security checkpoint carries the same civil penalty/fine as bringing a loaded firearm. The penalty for bringing a gun to an airport can range from a misdemeanor with a fine to serious prison time, depending on your intent and how you carry or use the weapon.

TSA firearm violations can result in fines or prison time

In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) restricts the types of materials people can bring to the airport. This includes guns, knives, and other items deemed dangerous. If you accidentally bring a weapon or incendiary device to the airport, the TSA may initiate civil action, including charging you with civil penalties. These penalties can be hefty, with a maximum of $14,950 for individuals and small businesses, and $37,377 for air carriers and aircraft operators.

The TSA considers a firearm to be "loaded" when both the firearm and its ammunition are accessible to the passenger. For example, if a passenger has a firearm in their baggage and ammunition in their pocket, the firearm is considered "loaded" for the purpose of assessing a civil penalty. Bringing an unloaded firearm with accessible ammunition to the security checkpoint carries the same civil penalty/fine as bringing a loaded firearm to the checkpoint.

The civil penalty amount is determined by the TSA based on several factors, including the type of item being transported, where it was discovered, and the presence of aggravating or mitigating circumstances. For example, if the TSA finds flammable gel or liquid at a security checkpoint, they may impose a fine between $390 and $2,250. Transporting blasting caps or more than 10 ounces of gunpowder may result in a criminal referral and a fine between $8,960 and $14,950.

It is important to note that firearm possession laws vary by state and locality, so travelers should always check the laws in the jurisdictions they are flying to and from. Additionally, travelers should be aware of any additional requirements their airline may have for traveling with firearms and ammunition.

Violating TSA firearm regulations can result in significant fines or even criminal charges, so it is essential to comply with all applicable laws and regulations when traveling with firearms.

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