LaGuardia Firearm Arrest Spotlights Conflict in Interstate Air Travel Gun Laws

The arrest of Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Rasheed Walker at LaGuardia Airport (LGA) on Friday, January 24, 2026, has once again drawn attention to the complex regulatory environment governing interstate firearm transport via commercial air travel. Walker was taken into custody by the Port Authority Police Department (PAPD) after allegedly attempting to check a bag containing a handgun and ammunition at the Delta Air Lines check-in counter in Terminal C.

Incident Details at LaGuardia

Walker, a non-resident of New York, was charged with two felony counts of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and criminal possession of a firearm. According to the criminal complaint, the offensive lineman allegedly presented a 9mm Glock pistol and 36 rounds of ammunition for inspection. The firearm was reportedly secured in a locked box, and Walker voluntarily disclosed its presence to an airline employee.

Walker’s attorney stated the gun was legally licensed in Wisconsin. The defense maintains that Walker mistakenly believed he was complying with all federal travel regulations.

Aviation Security and Regulatory Conflict

The incident highlights a critical friction point between federal and local laws. TSA firearm transport regulations permit passengers to travel with an unloaded firearm in a locked, hard-sided container as checked baggage. The traveler must declare the firearm to the airline at the check-in counter.

However, New York state and New York City have some of the nation’s most restrictive gun laws. New York does not recognize out-of-state firearm permits, which is the core issue in this and similar cases at NYC airports. Even when travelers follow the strict TSA and airline procedures for checked baggage, they can still be arrested under New York Penal Law for Criminal Possession of a Weapon.

This legal discrepancy is a recurring challenge for travelers, especially non-residents. The Port Authority Police Department (PAPD), which patrols LaGuardia Airport and JFK, often makes arrests in these situations. Legal experts note that hundreds of travelers have been arrested at New York City airports for this exact reason.

Impact on Airport Operations and Stakeholders

Such incidents create operational delays at the airline check-in counter. They require immediate intervention by airport police and can disrupt the baggage handling process. The involvement of the PAPD and the subsequent legal process can cause significant stress for the passenger. Furthermore, the incident serves as a stark reminder for all travelers to verify local gun laws before arriving at any airport.

• Airlines (like Delta Air Lines) must strictly adhere to both federal and local laws, placing their check-in staff at the front line of enforcement.
• Airport security remains a top priority, and the PAPD must enforce New York state law, regardless of federal transport protections.
• Travelers must understand that federal transport law (Firearm Owners' Protection Act) may not shield them from local felony charges, particularly in jurisdictions like New York.

Travelers are strongly advised to consult the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website for federal guidelines. They must also check the specific firearm laws of their origin, destination, and any layover locations. This due diligence is necessary to avoid severe legal consequences and airport security incidents.

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