Rifle on Plane

Question
I'm not sure if your the right person to ask so if I'm in the wrong area i apologize. I live in NY and i am going on a hunting trip in Texas this November. Do you have any knowledge as to how i go about getting my rifles on the plane as well as through the airport? I am flying Jet blue and I've already contacted them and they said all i need to do is keep them in a locked hard case. Personally i figure there is a little more to it. Especially the walking through the airport part. Its hard to believe that you can not bring a bottle of water past a certain point in an airport but you can walk right into the airport with rifles in a "locked" case. Its actually a little scary to think that can be done. Any thoughts?

Answer
Joe,

The process is actually pretty simple.  When you go to the airport, you will need to take your rifle in a locked, hard case to the ticket counter to have the luggage checked.  IT MUST TRAVEL AS CHECKED LUGGAGE.  

When you get to the ticket counter you will need to complete a form for the airline.  This is an airline form that provides some information about you and your firearm.  This form is usually placed inside the case with the firearm.  The airline personnel are supposed to verify that the firearm is NOT loaded.  You'll need to show them an empty chamber and I'd suggest that you use good muzzle discipline and discretion when you do this.  No need to go waiving your firearm around in the airport.

After this, you will need to lock your case.  The ticket agent will attach your baggage check ticket and send it down the conveyor.  The ticket agent usually has instructions to call down to TSA to let them know a firearm is coming down in checked luggage.  I'd suggest that you use the TSA approved locks.  If you use any other type you will have to provide the combination or key since TSA will open your luggage again down in their inspection area.  If you use your own locks, you will be hanging out at the ticket counter waiting while the TSA comes to collect your keys and then brings them back after inspecting your luggage.  

You should also do yourself a favor and buy your ammunition once you arrive at your destination.  Texas is very gun friendly and you will have plenty of places where you can buy ammo there.  If you try to bring it with you, you will need to have it packed in a separate piece of hard luggage which must be checked.  You cannot pack it with the firearm.  

Since most airlines are now starting to charge for your second piece of checked luggage, it is actually cheaper to buy ammo at your destination.

That's pretty much it.  On the other end, your case will simply pop out on the luggage carousel and you grab it and go.  When you go home, you will simply repeat the process above going in the other direction.

I would probably suggest that the case be fairly discrete.  No gun stickers or anything else to let people know what might be inside.  I'd also allow a some extra time at the airport for checking in, just in case.

Hope this helps you out...

Regards,

Doug