More than 140 guns were seized at DIA in 2021.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently announced that Denver International Airport (DEN) has set a new record for firearm finds at the airport's three security checkpoints in 2021, with 141 firearms discovered in travelers' carry-on luggage.

TSA officers found each of the firearms during the routine X-ray screening of carry-on property. In the past, TSA officers at DEN discovered 104 firearms in 2020; 140 in 2019; and 126 in 2018.

Of the approximately 585 million passengers and crew screened at airports nationwide, TSA discovered 5,972 firearms in carry-on luggage in 2021. The previous year? Approximately 3,557 firearms.

DEN ranked sixth nationally for the number of firearm discoveries by TSA officers in 2021. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport topped the list with 507 firearm finds—the most ever recorded at any airport since the inception of TSA—followed by Dallas Fort Worth International Airport with 317. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport came in at third with 245; then Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport with 196; and Nashville International Airport with 163.

"As the data suggests, travelers bringing firearms in carry-on luggage is not new ... Simply stated, one gun in carry-on luggage is one too many," said TSA Federal Security Director for Colorado Larry Nau. "We are asking all gun owners to take a few minutes to reacquaint yourself with the procedures for traveling with firearms and the importance of being aware of everything you transport in your carry-on luggage before you come to the airport."

Nau added, "Even if a traveler has a concealed weapons permit, firearms are never permitted in carry-on luggage. TSA officers will continue to screen for weapons and other potential security threats to ensure those item[s] do not make it into the cabin of an aircraft."

As stated in the press release, TSA says that individuals who violate the rules of traveling, in regards to firearms, will have Trusted Traveler status and TSA PreCheck® screening benefits revoked.

"The duration of disqualification will depend upon the seriousness of the offense and if there is a repeated history of violations," explains TSA.

For the complete list of regulations when it comes to flying with a firearm and concealed carry permit, consult the TSA's traveler information guide. You can also find a full summary of the penalties for prohibited items here.