Denver Airport Ranks Among Top for Firearm Confiscations in 2024

Flying can be a stressful experience, especially for travelers navigating security checkpoints at busy airports. While most passengers focus on remembering their boarding passes, removing their shoes, and ensuring their carry-on bags comply with airline regulations, some individuals attempt to bring prohibited items onto planes. One of the most alarming contraband items discovered at airport security checkpoints is firearms.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for ensuring passenger safety, and part of that duty involves detecting and confiscating unauthorized weapons. In 2024 alone, TSA agents across the United States confiscated over 6,600 firearms at airport security checkpoints. Surprisingly, Denver International Airport (DIA) ranked sixth in the nation for the number of firearms seized throughout the year, highlighting a concerning trend among travelers passing through Colorado’s busiest airport.

The Alarming Number of Firearms Seized at U.S. Airports

Now that 2024 has concluded, finalized reports are revealing just how many firearms were intercepted by TSA officers nationwide. The numbers are staggering. Some of the largest airports in the country have become hot spots for illegal firearm discoveries, with passengers either knowingly or unknowingly attempting to bring guns through security checkpoints.

The top five airports with the most firearm confiscations in 2024 were:

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – 440 firearms seized

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – 390 firearms seized

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (Houston, TX) – 272 firearms seized

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport – 247 firearms seized

Nashville International Airport – 188 firearms seized

Just behind these five airports, Denver International Airport ranked sixth with 166 firearms confiscated in 2024. The frequency of these confiscations raises serious concerns about airport security, passenger responsibility, and the ongoing challenge of keeping flights safe.

Why Are So Many Firearms Being Confiscated at DIA?

There are a few key reasons why Denver International Airport sees a high number of firearm confiscations:

1. Colorado’s Strong Gun Culture

Colorado has a large population of gun owners, with many residents passionate about Second Amendment rights. Given the state’s outdoor culture—including hunting, target shooting, and self-defense—many travelers may legally own firearms. However, some may forget to remove their guns from carry-on luggage or may not fully understand airport regulations regarding firearm transport.

2. Denver International Airport’s Size and Passenger Volume

DIA is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 77 million passengers annually. With such a high volume of travelers passing through security checkpoints, it’s inevitable that some passengers will make mistakes or intentionally try to bypass regulations.

3. Lack of Awareness About TSA Regulations

Many firearm owners fail to follow proper TSA procedures for transporting weapons. While it is legal to fly with a firearm, strict guidelines must be followed:

Firearms must be unloaded

They must be packed in a locked, hard-sided case

They must be declared to the airline at the check-in counter

They cannot be carried on the plane—they must be placed in checked baggage

Despite these clear rules, many travelers still attempt to bring firearms through carry-on luggage, leading to confiscations and, in some cases, legal penalties.

What Happens When Someone is Caught with a Firearm at DIA?

When TSA agents discover a firearm in a passenger’s carry-on bag, the situation is taken very seriously. The following steps typically occur:

Immediate Confiscation – TSA officers seize the firearm and contact law enforcement.

Passenger Detainment – The individual may be detained for questioning by airport security or local police.

Legal Consequences – Depending on state and federal laws, the passenger may face fines or even arrest.

TSA Fines – The TSA imposes fines up to $15,000 for attempting to bring a firearm through security.

Possible Flight Restrictions – Some passengers may be placed on temporary no-fly lists or face additional screening in the future.

How Can Travelers Avoid Firearm Confiscation?

For legal gun owners who need to travel with firearms, following TSA guidelines is crucial. Here are some tips to ensure compliance:

Always check your bags before heading to the airport. Ensure no firearms or ammunition are in your carry-on.

Use a TSA-approved gun case and pack your firearm in checked luggage.

Declare your firearm at the airline check-in counter and follow airline-specific rules.

Review TSA regulations before traveling to stay informed about any policy changes.

A Growing Security Concern for U.S. Airports

The increase in firearm confiscations across the country is concerning for airport security officials. While some passengers genuinely forget they have a firearm in their luggage, others may intentionally try to bring weapons onto flights. In both cases, these incidents pose serious security risks and add to the workload of TSA agents.

As more airports report rising numbers of firearm seizures, security measures may become even stricter. Travelers can expect enhanced screening procedures, more frequent bag checks, and potentially higher fines for firearm violations in the future.

Final Thoughts: A Wake-Up Call for Travelers

The fact that Denver International Airport ranked sixth in the nation for firearm confiscations in 2024 is a reminder that many passengers are still not following TSA regulations. Whether due to forgetfulness or intentional rule-breaking, the consequences for bringing a firearm through airport security can be severe.

As air travel continues to evolve, education and awareness are key to ensuring that travelers understand the rules surrounding firearms. Gun owners must take responsibility for their actions and follow TSA protocols to avoid legal trouble and maintain a safe flying environment for everyone.

Denver International Airport’s high ranking in firearm confiscations should serve as a wake-up call for travelers—double-check your bags, know the laws, and travel responsibly.

Disclaimer – Our editorial team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and eliminate any potential misinformation. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity in our content.

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