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Flying Questions

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Ronvandyn:

--- Quote from: Chris Z on May 21, 2010, 12:09:40 PM ---Ron-

Let's say I am flying to Atlanta, with a connection in Chicago. And let's say I'm stuck flying United... And my flight gets cancelled, now I'm stuck in Chicago for the night and I have to take possession of my checked bag with a handgun in it... Now what do I do? Only criminals and politicians can have handguns in Chicago...

--- End quote ---

That?s going to depend on the laws in Chicago.  I can speak about the stuff that the TSA requires, but not the states.  You might be able to try asking the airport police about it, I know that some airports will keep a weapon for you until you can get back on a plane but there are no guarantees.  You could end up going home without. 

There are always some gray areas that one just cannot avoid.  Sucks I know, but with so many peoples fingers in the pie it is unavoidable.

Ron

ranger04:
I have been pondering flying with a firearm also. I am going to Pittsburg in August with a flight change in Chicago, then I will be doing some driving to Virginia and Ohio. (gotta see the Grandkids) . Any suggestions? I so do not want to go to Chicago but if I want to get to Penn, looks like I have to.

Chris Z:
Well I had an interesting experience this past weekend while traveling.... I was on a road trip through several states (including Illinois), legally transporting my handgun unloaded in a case in the trunk... Per federal law.

I had to catch a flight out of Midway Airport to come home, and my original plan for where the gun would go... Had to change, so I was stuck without a way to get my gun home.

So I called Chicago PD at Midway airport and asked if it is possible to check a handgun with TSA for my flight home.... Because of their big handgun ban and all..... I was shocked when the Officer told me, "yeah, no problem... Just follow the TSA rules and you will be fine".

So needless to say, I was a little nervous going into Midway with a handgun, hoping I would make it home.... And unbelievably it was very smooth. The SW Airlines clerk said my G27 was "cute".... And the TSA lady who went through my suitcase with me watching on, was totally cool about everything.

I am still in total shock.... I actually flew out of Chicago successfully with a handgun!

Roper:
i just checked my Glock for the first time-I was surprised how easy it was.  I usually fly out of Lincoln - really smooth process.

unfy:
Congrats Chris!  >:D


I have flown with firearms to/from Florida and California several times.  Generally, use a TSA lock or similar, and you'll be fine.  One of the news stands at Epply sells the locks as well.

"Advertising" that you're carrying a weapon while approaching the curb or check in area is fine.  It lets everyone know what you're doing and avoids any surprises (LE / security types hate surprises).  And by advertising, I mean having the weapons in a typical gun case :).  You won't get bum rushed or anything, and acting suspicious is a good way to get to play 20 questions.  Just think opposite mentality as concealed carry and you'll do fine... you *want* people to know.  They're gonna know when they scan your bags anyway... and you *have* to declare them too.

If I'm transporting pistols inside my regular checked suitcase, I usually mention that fact first thing when I get to the check in counter... again, to avoid surprises etc :).

In regards to delays or similar in a jurisdiction where you're unsure of the rules - asking the local PD isn't a bad idea (kudos for thinking btw), or you can simply 'tough it out' and stay at the airport until your next flight.

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