Commercial Airlines
TSA checked baggage requirements, hard-sided case rules, ammunition limits, declaration procedures, and airline-specific policies for flying with firearms.
TSA Federal Requirements
Hard-Sided Locked Case
Must be completely secured with a non-TSA lock. Only you hold the key or combination. Soft cases are prohibited.
Unloaded — No Exceptions
The firearm must be completely unloaded. No round in the chamber. No loaded magazine inserted in the firearm.
Declare at Check-In
You must verbally declare the firearm to the airline agent at the check-in counter. Do not go to a kiosk only.
Declaration Form Inside Case
A signed declaration form must be placed inside the locked case. The airline will provide this form.
Ammunition Rules
- Maximum 11 lbs (5 kg) of ammunition per passenger
- Must be in original manufacturer's packaging OR a container specifically designed for ammunition
- Loose rounds in a bag, pocket, or loose in the case are NOT permitted
- Magazines must be empty — loaded magazines are not permitted even in checked baggage
- Black powder and percussion caps are prohibited entirely
- Ammunition may be in the same locked case as the firearm (check your airline's policy)
Airline-by-Airline Policies
| Airline | Policy | Fee |
|---|---|---|
American AirlinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
Delta Air LinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
United AirlinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
Southwest AirlinesFirearm-Friendly | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | No additional fee (first 2 bags free) |
Alaska AirlinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
JetBlueStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
Spirit AirlinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
Frontier AirlinesStandard Policy | Checked baggage only, hard-sided locked case | Standard checked bag fee |
Always verify current policies directly with your airline before travel. Policies change without notice.