The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has released a report that shows that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport has found more guns than any other airport in the United States so far in 2023. As of June 30, 2023, TSA officers have found 214 guns at Hartsfield-Jackson, which is on pace to be a record. The vast majority of passengers who have had guns found in their carry-on bags say they forgot they were there after being found at security checkpoints. After a firearm is found, TSA officers notify airport police, who take the firearm and passenger to the airport precinct. Passengers who bring guns to the security checkpoint face civil penalties, and they may also be subject to criminal citations.

TSA @ TFB:

• TSA Finds Glock 43X In Carry On – Don’t forget to Check Your Bags!
• Passenger with Pistol Slips Through TSA Checks at Atlanta Airport
• TSA’s Weirdest Finds Of 2016
• 3D Printed Revolver Caught By TSA In Reno
• Concealed Carry Corner: How To Fly With Your Carry Gun

I’ve had to represent clients who have been caught with guns in carry-ons (and loaded guns in checked bags, which can also be a problem). Criminal penalties are typically not sought if the gun is discovered in a gun-friendly state such as Georgia or Texas, but civil penalties ($$$) are the norm, as well as temporary forfeiture of Global Entry and/or PreCheck status, perhaps the worst part.

The article also mentions that this is not the first time that Hartsfield-Jackson has led the nation in gun detections. In 2022, the airport found 324 guns, which was also a record. This is no surprise as ATL is the busiest airport in the world. The real question is “Which airport seizes the most guns per capita?” The answer would definitely surprise you, and ATL is nowhere near the top. The video embedded below has the answer: