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Unloaded and Secured: The firearm must be unloaded and encased in a locked, hard-sided container. You, and only you, should have the key or combination to the lock. The case must be made of a durable material that cannot be opened with force and must completely secure the firearm from being accessed.
Ammunition: Ammunition must also be securely packaged. It can be in the same hard-sided case as the firearm but must be in a separate, securely closed box or container. The total weight of the ammunition must not exceed 11 pounds per passenger. Loose ammunition or magazines are not permitted.
Declaration: You must verbally declare the firearm at the ticket counter when checking in your baggage. Do not attempt to check in a firearm at a self-service kiosk or online.
Traveler Responsibility: You are responsible for knowing and following all federal, state, and local laws for all the locations you are traveling to, from, and through.
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To check in for a flight with a firearm, you must go to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Follow these steps for a hassle-free and compliant process:
Arrive Early at the Airport: Plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. This gives you ample time to complete the necessary check-in procedures and allows for any additional screening by TSA that may be required.
Go to the Ticket Counter: Head directly to the Southwest Airlines ticket counter. Do not go to a self-service kiosk or a curbside check-in area.
Verbally Declare the Firearm: Inform the Southwest agent that you are checking a firearm. State it clearly and calmly, such as, "I would like to declare a firearm for my checked bag."
Complete the Declaration Form: The agent will provide you with a declaration tag. You must fill out this form, attesting that the firearm is unloaded. You will then place this signed tag inside the hard-sided case with the firearm.
Secure the Firearm: With the signed tag inside, securely lock the hard-sided case. The agent will check to make sure the case is locked and properly secured.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: Once all the checks are complete, the agent will place a luggage tag on the firearm case and issue your boarding pass. The firearm case will be placed on a special belt for additional screening by TSA.
Remain at the Counter: You must remain at the ticket counter for a period of time, typically around 30 minutes, in case TSA needs you to return and open the case for further inspection.
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Confirm Allowed Items: They can confirm what types of firearms, ammunition, and parts are permitted.
Provide Booking Assistance: While you cannot check in online with a firearm, an agent can add a note to your reservation that you will be traveling with a declared firearm. This can help the airport agents be prepared for your arrival.
Offer Expert Guidance: For any complex scenarios, such as a last-minute change to a flight or a question about a specific airport's policy, an agent can provide the most accurate guidance.
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Q1: Can I check in for my flight with a firearm online?
A1: No, you must check in for your flight with a firearm in person at the ticket counter.
Q2: Does the firearm have to be unloaded?
A2: Yes, the firearm must be completely unloaded. This includes ensuring there are no rounds in the chamber or magazines.
Q3: Can I check a firearm for a connecting flight?
A3: Southwest Airlines allows firearms on connecting flights, but you must ensure you are in compliance with all local laws at your connection city.
Q4: How much does it cost to check a firearm?
A4: The firearm and its case count as one piece of checked baggage. Standard baggage fees apply if you are over your two-bag limit.
Q5: Can I use a TSA lock for my firearm case?
A5: It is highly recommended that you use a non-TSA lock, as only you should have access to the case. TSA agents can request that you open the case for inspection.
Q6: What if my firearm case is too big?
A6: The case must be within Southwest's checked baggage size and weight limits. The firearm case itself can be your checked bag.
Q7: Can I carry a firearm in my carry-on bag?
A7: No, firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags and must be checked.
Q8: What is the check-in deadline for a firearm?
A8: You must check in with a firearm at least 30 minutes before your domestic flight's scheduled departure time. It is best to arrive two hours early to allow for the process.
Q9: Can a phone agent help me with a last-minute flight change?
A9: Yes, an agent at ☎️+1(888)718-4745 ⭐ can assist you with a last-minute flight change and ensure the firearm is correctly re-declared on the new flight.
Q10: Can I check a firearm on an international Southwest flight?
A10: No, Southwest Airlines does not accept firearms or ammunition for international travel.
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