How can a traveler legally transport things such as a decorative sword? Check the Transportation Security Administration's regularly updated list of items that are permitted as checked baggage. The list...
The list of prohibited items is large indeed. These items cannot be carried onto the airplane in your carry-on baggage. You are responsible for checking the prohibited items list as you could be arrested even for accidentally bringing one of these items to the security checkpoint. In most cases, the security people will allow you to take the item to your car or rarely, add it to your checked baggage.
If you are traveling or have purchased a sword and wish to bring it with you, check with the airline first. Some have size restrictions on various items such as sporting goods. A sword is allowed onto an airplane if it is declared and sent through checked baggage. You may want to have it in a locked case of some type inside your luggage. Make sure you have a description with you in case it is lost.
Check the Transportation Security Administration's regularly updated list of items that are permitted as checked baggage. Some items do not have to be declared and a form filled out. Other items such as guns and ammunition need to be declared. This is as much for safety as for security. Security screeners cannot tell the difference between a real gun and a theatrical firearm. If the items in question can be broken down, they should be for traveling.
"Sporting equipment, particularly items that can be categorized as a weapon, such as a decorative sword or archery equipment, are typically accepted as checked luggage only and cannot be carried on to the aircraft. Some airline's will charge an additional fee or require special packing for unusual items, so be sure to check with your airline before you leave for the airport," says Paula Berg of Southwest Airlines.
These rules apply for airline flights that originate in the United States. If you will be traveling internationally, be sure to check with that airline and airport if the item can be transported back on an airplane. Check with the security offices located in the international airports you will be traveling through. You may have to make special arrangements or pay extra fees to transport swords and other weapons. Flights that are heading to the United States are required to conform to U.S. rules and regulations.
Even if the item is allowed in checked baggage, there may be other requirements by the individual airline. Most airlines have weight restrictions and limit the number of pieces of free luggage checked. If the sword or other item is large, it may be subject to extra fees and charges. During holiday or other peak travel times, airlines may not allow extra large items to be checked due to the large amounts of luggage they handle.
Do not ever try to bring a sword, knife or other weapon through the security screening for getting on an aircraft. These items will trigger an alarm and you may be arrested for trying to bring a prohibited item onto an aircraft. The security personnel will make the decision based on the item and circumstances. You may have to give up the item. If there is time and airline policy, you can get the item checked as baggage.
