Flying to FL

[AimHigh]

I will, very shortly, be flying to FL on Northwest Airlines. Anyone have any experiences on this airline, to speak of? This is the 1st time with a personal protection handgun, so, I am a little trepadacious. :)

[Sigster]

No problems the last several times I have flown on Northwest. The airline's website has info on checking a firearm. Lock the firearm in a hardsided case with the ammo in a separate container. Do not leave the magazines loaded.

When you get to the counter, declare that you have an UNLOADED firearm in your checked baggae. Typically, the counterperson will then notify a TSA representative who will escort you and your luggage to a table. Expect them to want to see the weapon but take your cues from them.

Have the key/combination with you to expedite the process.

[Kimber45]

Nothing to be worried about. I've done it before and will be doing so again next week. Your gun must be unloaded, in a hard sided case and in lockable case which will be placed in the checked bag. Ammunition should be in its original container and can be in the same suitcase. You must sign a "Unloaded Firearm" tag which will be placed in the suitcase. You may or may not be asked to show the unloaded firearm to the gate agent. You can lock the suitcase after it clears security. You can find information on transporting your firearm on the Northwest web site at www.nwa.com/services/shipping/cargo/luggage/faq.shtml and I would print this out and have it with me. It is not unusual to run into an agent who doesn't know all the rules. If you do run into someone like that it will probably be about having ammo in the same suitcase. That is spelled out in the NWA rules. I also have a copy to the TSA rules with me - sorry I don't have the url at hand.