3. Get A Good Case Purchase a high quality case that will keep
your guns from getting damaged Find a case that has foam lining and
compartments Guns are valuable, find a case that does not resemble
a gun case
4. Dismantle Make sure your gun is separated according to make
and model A common suggestion is to dismantle a scope if you have
one If you purchased a case with thick foam this step is not as
important
5. Buy a NON TSA approved lock 49CFR 1540.111 prohibits the use
of a TSA approved lock for firearm transportation TSA agents are
not trained or permitted to handle your firearm don't give them
an
6. Baggage check-in You must check in inside the airport, you
cannot use curbside baggage check Declare your gun to check Only
firearms need to be declared, do not declare airguns
7. Ammunition You will need to provide a filled out form
declaring your gun is not loaded A TSA inspector will process the
gun Ammunition must be packed separate from your firearm, and
typically must be less than 5 lbs
8. The TSA Inspection It is normally very quick TSA agents can
only visually inspect You may be asked to explain why you are
bringing a gun, a simply reply like for personal protection is
perfectly fine
9. Post-Inspection After the inspection is finished close and
lock your gun case Most often your guns will arrive with all the
other luggage Check with your destination airport if there is a
special area
10. International Travel
11. Rules and Customs You must learn the rules and regulations
of the destination countries in addition to the US's Acquire
necessary forms from you destination country early Call the US
Embassy to make sure you have everything
12. More Paperwork Get a customs officer to sign a US Customs
form 4457 in person before leaving the US This form can be used
multiple times, keep hold of it More info: Concealed Carry while
Traveling by Air Plane