More firearms intercepted at San Antonio International Airport in 2013

Weapons prohibited at TSA checkpoint

SAN ANTONIO – The number of firearms intercepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is up from years past. 

Last year, a total of 22 firearms were intercepted at TSA checkpoints at San Antonio International Airport. That number is now up to 32 as of mid-December. Nationally, the number is at 1,750, a jump from last year's 1,556.

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"I think it's an issue you're not going to be able to get rid of. People are going to try do anything they can," said airport visitor Abraham Guzman.

Firearms, firearms parts and ammunition are always prohibited in carry-on bags, but can be put into checked bags. The weapon must be unloaded, properly packed and declared to the airline.

"It's really important for people to know what the firearms or weapons rules are," said airport spokesperson Nora Castro. 'It's important for people to check their bags before coming to the airport. A lot of people may forget that they left some ammunition or some other weapon in their bag and they come to the airport not knowing that it's in there."

According to TSA, passengers who bring firearms to the checkpoint could face possible criminal charges from law enforcement or civil penalties from TSA.

Click here for more information on those penalties.

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