NASHVILLE, Tenn. — In the span of seven days (March 20-27), the Transportation Security Administration found eight guns at security checkpoints in Tennessee, including at least one in every major airport in the state.
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
- 3/20/2022: loaded M&P Bodyguard .380 caliber
- 3/22/2022: loaded Springfield .45 caliber
- 3/22/2022: loaded Glock 9mm
- 3/25/2022: loaded Glock 9mm
Memphis International Airport (MEM)
- 3/24/2022: loaded Glock 9mm
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
- 3/20/2022: loaded Smith & Wesson .357 caliber
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA)
- 3/24/2022: loaded SCCY Industries 9mm
Tri-Cities Airport (TRI)
- 3/22/2022: unloaded Glock 9mm
The TSA said local law enforcement partners removed the guns and passengers from checkpoint areas.
Guns aren't allowed in carry-on bags but are permitted in checked bags if they are declared to the airline, locked in a proper carrying case and unloaded.
TSA officers have found 64 guns at Tennessee airports this year. A total of 283 were found across the state last year.
In addition to potential criminal charges, passengers who bring guns to a checkpoint face civil penalties from the TSA.
Click here for more information about TSA prohibited items.
