On the 12th day of Christmas, the TSA took 82 fireworks, 3 folding knives, 2 fake guns, and 1 pepper spray from me.
Last month, the Transportation Security Administration stunned even veteran agency officials when it discovered a woman's carry-on bag containing a staggering number of prohibited items at Los Angeles International Airport.
The unidentified woman was flying from Los Angeles to Philadelphia on December 15 when an X-ray technician noticed the unusual contents of her bag, opened it and came face to face with her surprising stash.
The stockpile included knives, fake guns and dozens of fireworks.
LAX TSA Federal Security Director Jason Pantages said, “The amount of contraband found in one carry-on bag is extremely alarming.”
“We are in the midst of the holiday travel season and security checkpoints everywhere will be crowded. Let this incident serve as a reminder to all travelers to double-check the contents of their bags before coming to the airport. .”
In all, investigators found 82 “consumer grade” fireworks, three knives, two replica firearms and a can of pepper spray.
TSA notified the Los Angeles World Airport Police Department, who went to the security checkpoint and interviewed the woman. The LAWA Bomb Squad also confiscated the fireworks in response.
The agency did not say whether the woman was detained by authorities or allowed to board the plane, but reiterated carry-on rules in a press release.
“The traveling public is reminded that fireworks, a type of explosive, are never allowed on board an aircraft in carry-on or checked baggage. Knives and replica firearms are transported as checked baggage. TSA,” the TSA wrote.
“One 4-ounce container of pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage, as long as it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental release. Self-defense sprays containing more than 2 mass percent tear gas are permitted in checked baggage. , and is prohibited in checked baggage. Some airlines do not allow pepper spray to be transported, so travelers are advised to check with their respective airlines.
Travelers are also advised not to pack wrapped gifts in suitcases, and TSA may require you to unpack your luggage at the security line if the contents of your bag trigger a warning. A warning is issued if there is.
