View Full Version : United Airlines to Orlando tips for checked weapon
Leaving Saturday for Orlando. Taking my CCW packed in a Pelican 1170 case with clip and ammunition. It will be unloaded.
Any tips when declaring it at check in? First time flying with it.
Thanks
Randy
Check in at the kiosk, walk up to the counter and say "I have a firearm* to declare."
You'll be led by the nose from that point onward.
Make sure you have a non-TSA lock to put on your pelican case. It should remain locked all the time unless you're requested to open the case (like when you put the "Unloaded firearm" tag INSIDE - then relock it immediately).
O2
*"Firearm" goes over better than "gun" when among muggles.
Check in at the kiosk, walk up to the counter and say "I have a firearm* to declare."
You'll be led by the nose from that point onward.
Make sure you have a non-TSA lock to put on your pelican case. It should remain locked all the time unless you're requested to open the case (like when you put the "Unloaded firearm" tag INSIDE - then relock it immediately).
O2
*"Firearm" goes over better than "gun" when among muggles.
This!
Also get ready for a "random" pat down.
Good advice. But it's not a clip.
Great-Kazoo
03-16-2017, 14:26
You've been given the answer. here's the "official" site for info
https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition
Good advice. But it's not a clip.
I support this statement and I'd like to subscribe to your news letter.
You never know, his CCW might be a Garand...
Gun unloaded.. action locked open.
Magazines empty.
Ammo in plastic or 'factory' box.
Ask me how I lost 34 rds of 147g HST
The last time I did it they allowed me to have loaded mags. Even a loaded mag in the pistol. Just nothing in the chamber.
For CCW firearms, I have 2 loaded magazines, firearm empty, slide forward. I also have a ammo wallet with more ammo, and knife in the same case. (I carry-on my flashlight) It is pretty easy and 9 times out of 10 I don't even have to open the case. Plan for about 15 to 20 minutes extra. In the fall hunting seasons, I have had it take as much as 45 minutes.
"I would like to declare a firearm Ma'am (or Sir)" is the sentence I start with when I get called to the counter.
hurley842002
03-16-2017, 15:58
Here is a handy report card for the various airlines.
http://deviating.net/firearms/packing/report.html
Good advice. But it's not a clip.
I figured he was carrying a Smith and Wesson 625 (https://www.smith-wesson.com/firearms/performance-center-model-625).
O2
funkymonkey1111
03-16-2017, 19:48
Its a very easy process. Nothing at all to worry about, especially if you use the proper verbiage, instead of " i have a gun!!"
I've found having a chamber flag in the action helps them quickly see the firearm is not loaded and avoids that question should they even ask to open the case to see the firearm.
On timing, I got lucky one time by only just getting in line at the TSA scanner ahead of a large group of RATON competition shooters. I probably could have begged my way in front if needed seeing as all us gun guys are so cool.
United is at the opposite corner of the terminal from the TSA scanner room and a UA employee will cart your firearms there with you, so make sure you plan time accordingly. I would also query UA at your destination for the locations and expected time for the return.
Don't stack too much ammo in the same spot - I've had to let them open the case after they raised an eyebrow during the scan. If it doesn't fit through their scanner, they'll open it for inspection.
Denver and the popular hunting destinations have the process down pretty well. I've had to explain the process to agents at other locations from time to time, including SEA. And they're all different. Example: In MKE, you haul the case to the TSA scanner right next to the ticket counters. Hell, I even asked for mine back once there when I realized I hadn't put my knife in the case before handing it over.
spqrzilla
03-18-2017, 22:08
I always shout "WHERE ARE ALL THE WHITE WOMEN?!? I HAVE A GUN." at the counter.
APEXgunparts
03-20-2017, 11:10
Check with the actual airport security people.
I know of two airports where travelers discovered the airport management had rules about NO firearms or even parts were allowed on the premises.
One gent posted about flying out of Newark and after reporting to TSA (who had no issues) the local airport security apprehended him (TSA called them).
They had local regs he was charged with violating!
A friend of mine had trouble at an Airport in California, he was transporting firearms parts, again TSA looked and cleared him and the airport authorities picked him up and charged him.
Lesson here is don't assume the airline & TSA speak for the locals who run the actual airport!
Richard
hurley842002
03-20-2017, 12:00
If you get a chance OP, can you please update us on your experience?
hurley842002
03-20-2017, 12:11
Check with the actual airport security people.
I know of two airports where travelers discovered the airport management had rules about NO firearms or even parts were allowed on the premises.
One gent posted about flying out of Newark and after reporting to TSA (who had no issues) the local airport security apprehended him (TSA called them).
They had local regs he was charged with violating!
A friend of mine had trouble at an Airport in California, he was transporting firearms parts, again TSA looked and cleared him and the airport authorities picked him up and charged him.
Lesson here is don't assume the airline & TSA speak for the locals who run the actual airport!
Richard
I'd be interested in knowing what airports you speak of, because unless a person violates a federal/state/municipal law, the airport can't "charge" anyone with anything, i.e. DIA couldn't charge anyone with bringing a "checked" firearm onto the premises, due to "no weapons" signs, as said signs don't carry the weight of the law. I suppose if there were an airport with signs and a policy stating no firearms, in a state or municipality where the signs carried the weight of the law, you could find yourself in some trouble, but I don't know that an airport policy can "trump" Interstate transportation laws (FOPA).
I'd be interested in knowing what airports you speak of, because unless a person violates a federal/state/municipal law, the airport can't "charge" anyone with anything, i.e. DIA couldn't charge anyone with bringing a "checked" firearm onto the premises, due to "no weapons" signs, as said signs don't carry the weight of the law. I suppose if there were an airport with signs and a policy stating no firearms, in a state or municipality where the signs carried the weight of the law, you could find yourself in some trouble, but I don't know that an airport policy can "trump" Interstate transportation laws (FOPA).
Merely flying THROUGH JFK with an item banned in the People's Republik of New York will get you arrested if you take possession of said item at any time. You are generally OK if the item is checked through to your final destination. Soldiers transiting through there have been charged for possession for having mags in their checked baggage, then claiming their baggage to board a bug to their duty station. Do not underestimate the foolhardiness of airpost cops on the communist coasts.
I'd guess it would depend on where you were flying to and from. If you took off from Denver with and AR and landed in New York the second you picked it up after landing you'd be breaking the NY laws about rifles. Wouldn't you stand to be arrested the second you stepped out of the air port with it? Is the airport like some kind of embassy or can they arrest you right inside for breaking NY law?
Merely flying THROUGH JFK with an item banned in the People's Republik of New York will get you arrested if you take possession of said item at any time. You are generally OK if the item is checked through to your final destination. Soldiers transiting through there have been charged for possession for having mags in their checked baggage, then claiming their baggage to board a bug to their duty station. Do not underestimate the foolhardiness of airpost cops on the communist coasts.
we must have been typing at the same time
hurley842002
03-20-2017, 12:54
Merely flying THROUGH JFK with an item banned in the People's Republik of New York will get you arrested if you take possession of said item at any time. You are generally OK if the item is checked through to your final destination. Soldiers transiting through there have been charged for possession for having mags in their checked baggage, then claiming their baggage to board a bug to their duty station. Do not underestimate the foolhardiness of airpost cops on the communist coasts.
Correct, I'm aware of the commie areas, and yes their local authorities will make your life miserable. I was responding to the part where "airport management had rules". Airport management doesn't have the authority to "charge" based on rules, made up by them.
Here is a handy report card for the various airlines.
http://deviating.net/firearms/packing/report.html
Excellent resource, thanks for posting it!
Correct, I'm aware of the commie areas, and yes their local authorities will make your life miserable. I was responding to the part where "airport management had rules". Airport management doesn't have the authority to "charge" based on rules, made up by them.
They do have considerable discretion about how they enforce certain laws, as do all police officers. Many times in the more repressive cities, they choose not to exercise discretion, or common sense, for that matter. You are correct that airport managers are not the God Emperors of their domains(despite their delusions of grandeur).
When you arrive at your destination your firearm containing bag will probably be in a secured baggage area not on the baggage carousel. I used a bicycle cable lock to attach my pistol case to my luggage. I felt better knowing the case wouldn't accidentally fall out of the aircraft.
Flying to and from Florida was a none issue from CSCO.
Fentonite
03-20-2017, 15:55
When you arrive at your destination your firearm containing bag will probably be in a secured baggage area not on the baggage carousel.
Not necessarily. Each of the last three times I checked a firearm, (pelican rifle case to Houston, pistol in luggage to Atlanta, and then back to Denver), my luggage was just on the regular carousel at the arrival airport, even the rifle case. Get to the luggage carousel quick.
hurley842002
03-20-2017, 16:45
Not necessarily. Each of the last three times I checked a firearm, (pelican rifle case to Houston, pistol in luggage to Atlanta, and then back to Denver), my luggage was just on the regular carousel at the arrival airport, even the rifle case. Get to the luggage carousel quick.
This has been my experience as well, on the California side, and the Denver side.
Not necessarily. Each of the last three times I checked a firearm, (pelican rifle case to Houston, pistol in luggage to Atlanta, and then back to Denver), my luggage was just on the regular carousel at the arrival airport, even the rifle case. Get to the luggage carousel quick.
This has been my experience as well, on the California side, and the Denver side.
Ditto, every airport/airline is different.
As I recall (it's been a bit)
Flying into SEA via UA, they hold it for ID at the bag counter, maybe. I seem to recall last time it was on the carousel.
Flying into MKE, it is dumped on the carousel. Same for DIA. I think maybe once it (Pelican 1560) was in oversize, but free for the taking. Long gun cases will almost always generally be pulled as oversize, and at DIA probably end up on the ski carousel. Surprised they dumped a long case on the general.
APEXgunparts
03-20-2017, 18:46
Check with the actual airport security people.
I know of two airports where travelers discovered the airport management had rules about NO firearms or even parts were allowed on the premises.
One gent posted about flying out of Newark and after reporting to TSA (who had no issues) the local airport security apprehended him (TSA called them).
They had local regs he was charged with violating!
A friend of mine had trouble at an Airport in California, he was transporting firearms parts, again TSA looked and cleared him and the airport authorities picked him up and charged him.
Lesson here is don't assume the airline & TSA speak for the locals who run the actual airport!
Richard
By "airport management" I was referring to the city or county that owns the airport.
They are another level of laws / regulations that you should be aware of when traveling.
You should call ahead to the management office and perhaps the airport security office to find out if they have any "local" laws about you traveling in with a firearm.
My friend who was charged with having firearm parts on the airport property had to hire a California attorney and fly back in for the court appearance.
They would not just ticket him and set a fine, he had to appear.
What an expensive hassle!
Richard
What would have happened had he just not shown up?
Failure to Appear Warrant would have been issued and would have sat dormant until the next time he was stopped by the police in some place within the extraditable area for the warrant.
OR
Default judgment entered for non-criminal issues and fines would be assessed and turned over to ruthless creditors who would hound you to the gates of perdition.
Great-Kazoo
03-21-2017, 07:36
By "airport management" I was referring to the city or county that owns the airport.
They are another level of laws / regulations that you should be aware of when traveling.
You should call ahead to the management office and perhaps the airport security office to find out if they have any "local" laws about you traveling in with a firearm.
My friend who was charged with having firearm parts on the airport property had to hire a California attorney and fly back in for the court appearance.
They would not just ticket him and set a fine, he had to appear.
What an expensive hassle!
Richard
Unless it's an actual firearm. There's no reason not to send it via ups, usps or fedhex. To date there's been no issue in any state with a checked in firearm. WE do however only travel with bolt or lever actions. Any Semi meets destination state regs. Hand guns are (unfortunately) taken with 10 rd mags. No one blinks at revolvers.
That is how we transport guns when driving.
The biggest hassle i encountered was with of all things, a case of beer.
The flying with guns question gets asked a lot yet it's really not hard to deal with at the check in counter. It also pays to have a copy of the TSA & any airline guidelines with you.
APEXgunparts
03-21-2017, 08:04
Unless it's an actual firearm. There's no reason not to send it via ups, usps or fedhex. To date there's been no issue in any state with a checked in firearm. WE do however only travel with bolt or lever actions. Any Semi meets destination state regs. Hand guns are (unfortunately) taken with 10 rd mags. No one blinks at revolvers.
That is how we transport guns when driving.
The biggest hassle i encountered was with of all things, a case of beer.
The flying with guns question gets asked a lot yet it's really not hard to deal with at the check in counter. It also pays to have a copy of the TSA & any airline guidelines with you.
The gun parts had been a last minute opportunity purchase on the way home from a surfing trip.
My friend had no idea that a couple of collectible parts were going to cause so much grief.
California just has lots of ways to jam you up!
The other case was Newark, gent declared the firearm at the airline counter, no problem with the airline, no problem with TSA BIG problem with the local laws regarding firearms on the airport grounds.
That one I read on a web forum.
I had a friend who always flew home (NJ) from Colorado with a 1.5 gallon tub of frozen beer-cheese soup!
He hand carried it and TSA never blinked an eye about it.
I always expected to hear some sad tale about his trip home, but it never happened.
Richard
Failure to Appear Warrant would have been issued and would have sat dormant until the next time he was stopped by the police in some place within the extraditable area for the warrant.
OR
Default judgment entered for non-criminal issues and fines would be assessed and turned over to ruthless creditors who would hound you to the gates of perdition.
Would be nice if the desire to have reciprocation was outweighed by the ability of locations to tell others to piss off.
.455_Hunter
03-21-2017, 08:22
I have never had much of an issue flying with firearms. Even checking my handgun out of LAX was a non-issue. The Southwest counter lady said they see LOTS of guns.
hurley842002
03-21-2017, 08:42
The flying with guns question gets asked a lot yet it's really not hard to deal with at the check in counter. It also pays to have a copy of the TSA & any airline guidelines with you.
This, I think a lot of paranoia and stories from a "friend of a friends uncle on one of the forums I frequent", cause folks to freak out over checking firearms. The law is the law, know what you are doing, carry the law/rules with you, and be polite.
Update no issues Denver to Orlando. As others have stated bag was coming off the general carsole.
Last update flew out of Orlando yesterday via United. Checked in through premier check in. United agent who was a lady by the way very nice. Asked me to open my bag then had me open the locked case all the while telling not to allow any other passengers to see it now mind you suitcase is on the floor people are noticing me take no case out and removing padlocks.
After opening the case agent inquired how to determine weapon was unloaded. Talk about crazy scene.
The only time I have flown Frontier Denver to Austin, they made me take the firearm out of the case and show it to them at both ends. Not sure if they were checking how "cool" it was or what (Sig P238 so meh).
The only time I have flown Frontier Denver to Austin, they made me take the firearm out of the case and show it to them at both ends. Not sure if they were checking how "cool" it was or what (Sig P238 so meh).
That's what I've flown with, the P238. The guys in Denver were picking on me for flying with such a massive firearm. I feel like they were used to hunting rifles or something. It was almost as though they were saying "why'd you even declare this pea shooter", was kind of funny.
ClangClang
03-30-2017, 05:37
Just checked a Glock 43 from Baltimore to Manchester, NH and back to BWI. No issues. Southwest. Neither check-in agent even wanted to see it. They just asked for verbal confirmation that it was unloaded, then handed me a tag to fill out and tape to the top of the locking pistol case inside my suitcase. Pistol case was cabled to the frame of the suitcase itself. No issues. Only took an extra 5-10 minutes on either side, and that was just from waiting on line.
That's what I've flown with, the P238. The guys in Denver were picking on me for flying with such a massive firearm. I feel like they were used to hunting rifles or something. It was almost as though they were saying "why'd you even declare this pea shooter", was kind of funny.
Pretty funny. Not sure if you have ever flown Frontier, but they have no sense of humor.
colorider
03-31-2017, 14:29
Last frontier flight to Vegas I had my g19 and 500 rnds of ammo in my checked bag. Ammo was 2# over their ammo weight limit, but they didn't even open up bag to check things. Same with my buddy but his ammo was way over their weight limit. Neither of us had our bags opened. However, 2 hunters in front of us had their rifle cases opened and gone through every inch. Missed their flight. silly out of state hunters learned a valuable lesson. Show up earlier. They arrived at the airport 1 hour before their flight. Derp.
mattiooo
03-31-2017, 15:31
Just got back from a combined business trip and family trip. Flew United from DIA to Philly.
I flew out with just a First Alert Pistol Safe cabled to the frame of my luggage. Inside was a Taurus 85 and half a box of ammo. No trouble in DIA. After I asked for the declaration form I signed it, he signed it and had me put it in the lockbox. He didn't verify the handgun was unloaded himself. He then had a porter roll my case over to a special TSA baggage area on the East side of the terminal. I waited for a few minutes while they checked my bag, then they sent me on my way and took my bag. Bag came out on the carousel in Philly.
On the way back, I had added two revolvers I inherited from my Dad and 2 boxes of ammo - we shot the half box I brought while I was there. They were in the original hard case the S&W came in, with a standard keyed lock on it. I ran the steel cable through that case and onto the frame.
At Philly, they had me check the bag in the normal place I filled out one declaration card for both locked boxes and put in the main suitcase and I was told to wait 15 to 20 minutes before heading through security. I waited and then went through security. On my way to get a drink, I was paged to a gate for a message. On arriving at the gate there was a TSA agent who was very friendly and explained that the United agent put the bag on the wrong belt and the TSA folks were at a shift change. They needed to get into the black box to check something. That took all of 7 minutes and I was on my way again. The agent must have apologized 5 times. (One of the friendliest airport people I've ever dealt with in Philly).
I would say, aside from the unusual issue, it added maybe 5 minutes on the way out and 2 minutes (plus the 15-minute wait) on the way back. For my first time flying with my firearms, it was a simple and easy process, and I will not hesitate to do it again.
The only hiccup I wasn't ready for was - on the way back because they knew I had firearms, I was unable to check-in online the day before, or even check-in at a kiosk. I had to have an agent do it. Not a problem, since you need an agent anyway. I just didn't know why it was happening, so I was worried there was a problem with my return flight.
I also found it interesting that each airport handles the process differently.
Aloha_Shooter
03-31-2017, 16:37
Here is a handy report card for the various airlines.
http://deviating.net/firearms/packing/report.html
Nice concise summary of the different airlines although I would note that I've seen everything he says in favor of US Airways while traveling on United. I've never had a problem checking my firearms on United (including an AR-15 at Orlando around Dec 22 2002 which was before TSA). In fact, the only question I got at MCO was where I got the AR and how much it cost (as in, "dude, where can I score one?"). While the regulations online state ammunition to be boxed, I've never had an issue with loaded magazines as long as they weren't in the weapon itself. As long as you're not nervous, they shouldn't be.
Delta Airlines has just revised their handling of checked firearms. They are now supposed to send the bag containing the firearm to their baggage office rather than the carousel for retrieval. Always check with your airline for their specific instructions. Know and follow the laws for every jurisdiction where you will be in possession of your firearm (easier said than done).
http://wsvn.com/news/local/delta-refines-checked-baggage-policy-following-fll-shooting/
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