This episode goes back to a trip I took in May, flying Spirit Airlines from New Orleans to Las Vegas with two handguns in my checked luggage. The check-in process went smoothly overall, although there was one moment that caught me off guard.
Check-In at MSY
Everything started out routine at the Spirit counter. I declared my firearms as usual, filled out the card, and the agent placed it on the case. What threw me for a second was when he asked what type of firearms I had.
At that time, I hadn’t heard that question too often, so it made me pause for a moment. These days I’m used to it. I just say “Handguns,” and if they need the specific models, I keep a note on my phone with the shortest possible names to keep the process simple.
For this flight I was traveling with two guns: a KelTec PR57 and a second handgun I honestly can’t remember now because he only asked for the PR57 by name. Both were secured inside a Pelican V100 case, which I placed inside a smaller piece of luggage.
After the airline agent finished the paperwork, I locked the case and handed over the bag. Once they took it, I headed straight to security. Sometimes they ask you to wait 15 minutes or so…sometime’s they don’t.
Arrival in Las Vegas
When I landed at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, I went straight to baggage claim. My luggage came out on the regular carousel with everything else, which is how it typically arrives when I’m flying Spirit or Southwest.
I grabbed the bag, checked that the locks were still intact, and headed out. No secondary pickup area, no delays, no surprises.
Final Thoughts
This flight was another straightforward example of how predictable flying with firearms can be once you know the routine. Even flying a budget airline like Spirit, the check-in process was professional, quick, and drama-free.
If you’re new to this series, the takeaway is simple: declare your firearm politely, pack it correctly, keep your answers short and clear, and you’ll usually be on your way without any issues.