TSA Expects Record Number of Flyers, Warns About Weapons

CHARLOTTE, NC — TSA is sending a warning as Charlotte Douglas Airport expects the number of passengers to hit a 10-year high this Spring break season.

With more travelers, TSA expects more weapons and prohibited items could slow security lines.

“Purses with brass knuckles on them that have spikes,” said TSA’s Mike England.

England pointed out the unexpected and typical weapons agents confiscate at Charlotte Douglas.

“Credit card knives,” said England.

Four percent more people will fly though this Charlotte this Spring break season, starting next weekend, according to TSA.

The administration expects an estimated 62-million travelers across the U.S., a 10 year high.

“I thought so,” said one passenger, Joey Bacon. “I could sense that.”

TSA says more people means more inexperienced flyers may not know or forget what’s prohibited.

Police seized 12 guns at the airport so far this year.

Officers seized 54 last year, up from 40 in 2015.

“If you’re caught with a firearm, you can face a fine up to 11,000 dollars from TSA, but you’ll also be arrested,” said England.

TSA says a gun will shut down a line for 20 plus minutes, making everyone in line wait.

Varlia Haynie says she had to pay nearly $1,000 when she missed a flight.

“It was very frustrating, and it definitely was scary,” said Haynie.

So TSA says to take the two-hour arrival window seriously, and make sure no weapons are hidden in your luggage before leaving your house.