TSA: How to pack a firearm for travel, other prohibited items

MCALLEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Transportation Security Administration and McAllen International Airport on Wednesday demonstrated how to properly pack, declare, and travel with a firearm in checked luggage.

The demonstration was performed by a TSA uniformed officer who gave travel tips on what is allowed and what is not.

A spokesperson for the TSA in Texas said a firearm must be unloaded. It must be packed in a hard-sided container with a lock and declared with your airline when you check it into your luggage that goes in the belly of the plane, not in your carry-on.

At no time are firearms, ammunition, or any firearm components allowed in carry-on luggage.

"The one thing we want to emphasize is that you follow all the rules," said Patricia Mancha, Media spokesperson for TSA in Texas. "You must declare it with your airline. If you follow all those other rules and don't declare it, that's considered a violation, and you will be subject to a fine of up to $17,000. Often, when someone brings a firearm, they miss their flight because it's not a quick process. Every time that our officers find a firearm, they call the police to respond. The police come in and then they take over the case."

TSA advises travelers to ask questions if there is any confusion. Visit the Transportation Security Administration for a pre-check list.