TSA Intercepts Over 100 Firearms at Denver Airport in 2024
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has intercepted more than 5,000 firearms at airport security checkpoints across the nation since the beginning of 2024, and Denver International Airport (DIA) remains one of the top contributors. At DIA alone, TSA officers have stopped 127 firearms in carry-on luggage during X-ray screenings this year.
Nationwide, the TSA finds about 18-19 firearms per day at checkpoints, with the majority being loaded. DIA ranks sixth in the country for the most firearms intercepted, trailing Nashville International Airport with 156 and ahead of Orlando International Airport with 119.
Surprisingly, despite the large numbers, firearm interceptions are trending downward. From July through September 2023, TSA stopped 1,800 firearms nationwide. In the same period this year, with 10 million more travelers, TSA stopped around 1,700 firearms—about 100 fewer than last year. At DIA, the trend is similar, with 136 firearms intercepted by this time last year, compared to 127 so far in 2024.
Travelers are reminded that while it’s not illegal to travel with a firearm, there are strict guidelines. If a firearm is found in carry-on luggage at a security checkpoint, TSA will notify local law enforcement. Passengers may face arrest, citations, or fines up to $15,000, depending on local laws and circumstances.
