NORFOLK, Va. — Thursday afternoon, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) showcased an impressive number of prohibited items they confiscated from travelers after they went through security at Norfolk International Airport.
Multiple knives, a baton and even a Batman symbol-shaped weapon were some of the weapons displayed. With a busy holiday season starting in a few weeks, Jeffrey Horowitz, the Assistant Federal Security Director for ORF, took some time to remind folks what not to put in your carry-on luggage.
"If you could squeeze it, if you could spray it, if you could pour it, or if you could spread it, ok, check baggage," Horowitz said.
A record 33 guns were confiscated at Norfolk’s airport in 2024 by the agency. If you’re caught with a gun, not only will the police get involved, but it can have a steep fine attached to it.
“TSA can issue a civil penalty up to $15,000. The other thing, which bothers more people than that, is you could lose pre-check,” Horowitz said.
That's why the agency offered a simple strategy to ensure you know everything that is in your bag, in order to have a smooth airport experience this upcoming holiday travel season.
“You start with an empty bag. There's nothing in your bag, and you know that because it's empty. That means everything you put into your bag from that point forward, you will know exactly what's going into that bag.” Horowitz said.
TSA also offers the MyTSA app that gives up-to-date info on what you can and can’t bring and what bag it may belong in.