‘Extremely concerning’ discovery made by TSA officers at Los Angeles airport
Transportation Security Administration officials made what they described as an “extremely concerning” discovery at Los Angeles International Airport.
An unidentified woman flying from Los Angeles to Philadelphia was stopped at security during a routine X-ray screening on December 15 after an officer noticed several prohibited items in her carry-on luggage. agency announced.
When the officer then opened the bag in front of the traveler, he was shocked to find 82 fireworks, three knives, two replica firearms and a can of pepper spray – all of which are prohibited in hand luggage, the service announced.
“The sheer number of prohibited items discovered in a single carry-on bag is extremely concerning,” said Jason Pantages, federal security director for LAX TSA.
“Let this incident serve as a reminder to all travelers to double-check the contents of their bags before coming to the airport.”
Following the discovery, the TSA officer contacted the Los Angeles World Airports Police Department, who arrived at the Terminal 4 security checkpoint and interviewed the passenger.
Airport police bomb squad also responded and seized the explosives.
It is unclear whether the woman was arrested or charged with any wrongdoing in the aftermath.
Transportation Security Administration officials made what they described as an “extremely concerning” discovery at Los Angeles International Airport
The officer found 82 fireworks, three knives, two replica firearms and a can of pepper spray – all prohibited in carry-on luggage
Fireworks and other explosives are never allowed on an airplane, while replicas of firearms and knives are allowed in checked baggage.
A single four-ounce container with a pepper spray security seal is also generally allowed in checked baggage, but large canisters containing more than two percent tear gas by mass are not.
However, some airlines do not allow any form of pepper spray, so the TSA recommends that travelers check before flying.
Travelers can also use the What can I bring? consult. in the MyTSA app, or send a photo of a questionable item to @AskTSA on X or Facebook.