Local

TSA finds record-breaking number of guns at SEA security checkpoints

SEATTLE — Transportation Security Administration officers found the 13th and 14th firearms of 2023 at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport on Sunday, according to the agency.

It’s a record for the month of January, according to the agency.

The record-breaking January comes about a week after TSA officials spoke about a record-breaking 2022 at security checkpoints statewide.

TSA officers found 164 guns in airports across Washington in 2022. 113 of those were found at SEA. That’s 16 more than in 2021 and 95 more than in 2020.

TSA found 6,542 guns nationwide. Officers found 5,419 firearms in 2010.

Firearms must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided container as checked baggage only, according to SEA officials. More information on firearm safety and policies can be found here.

Even with a concealed weapons permit, passengers can’t take firearms in carry-on luggage. Weapons can be flown on commercial aircraft with specific guidelines, according to TSA’s website.

Travelers can also use the TSA “Can I Bring” feature on their website and mobile app or tweet “@AskTSA” from 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. PST with questions.