Two firearms were discovered at the security checkpoint at the Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport today.
The Transportation Security Administration found a loaded .45 caliber pistol and a loaded .28 caliber pistol in a passenger's carry-on bag at about 12:15 p.m., according to a news release. After taking possession of the firearms and ammunition, airport police cited the passenger on a state charge.
Firearms are not permitted in passenger carry-on bags; however, unloaded firearms may be transported in checked baggage.
"As we continually remind, passengers are responsible for the contents of bags they bring to the security checkpoint," said Jon Allen, TSA spokesman. "We suggest passengers look through bags thoroughly before coming to the airport to make sure there are no illegal or prohibited items."
So far this year, there have been four firearms discovered at the airport's security checkpoint.