Explosive

Small Arms Ammunition

Small arms ammunition, including cartridges up to 19.1mm and shotgun shells, is generally permitted for air travel. However, strict rules apply regarding where and how it can be transported. It is exclusively allowed in checked baggage, provided it meets specific packaging and quantity requirements. Passengers must always verify the exact regulations with their chosen airline, as policies can vary, especially for international flights.

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Baggage Rules
Cabin Baggage ✗ Prohibited
Checked Baggage ✓ Allowed
Quantity Limit Reasonable amount for personal use; international regulations and some airlines limit to 5 kg (11 pounds) gross weight per passenger.
Packaging Requirement Must be securely packed in boxes or other devices specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. Ammunition clips and magazines must also be securely boxed so no ammunition is loose or exposed.

Safety Guide

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1. Checked Baggage Only: Small arms ammunition is strictly prohibited in carry-on baggage. It must always be transported in your checked baggage.
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2. Quantity Limits: You are generally allowed a reasonable amount for personal use during your trip. However, be aware that international (ICAO/IATA) regulations and some U.S. airlines limit this to a maximum of 5 kg (11 pounds) gross weight per passenger. Always confirm the specific limit with your airline before travel.
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3. Secure Packaging: Ammunition must be securely packed in boxes or other containers specifically designed for carrying small amounts of ammunition. This ensures that the cartridges are protected and do not become loose.
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4. Clips and Magazines: If you are transporting ammunition in clips or magazines, these must also be securely boxed. The primary goal is to prevent any ammunition from being loose or exposed within your baggage.
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5. Prohibited Items: These rules specifically cover cartridges up to 19.1 mm (.75 caliber) and shotgun shells. They do NOT include black powder, smokeless powder, primers, percussion caps, or homemade powder and ball loads for muzzle loading firearms. These items are generally forbidden.
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6. Unloaded Firearms: While the source text mentions ammunition, remember that loaded firearms are strictly forbidden. Unloaded firearms can be transported in checked baggage, but they have their own set of stringent security screening requirements, which should be reviewed separately with the TSA.
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7. Airline Confirmation: Due to varying airline policies and international regulations, it is crucial to contact your specific airline well in advance of your flight. They can provide the most up-to-date and precise information regarding their acceptance policies and any additional restrictions.
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8. Law Enforcement Exemption: Note that these restrictions do not apply to armed law enforcement officers traveling under specific conditions outlined in 49 CFR 1544.219. This exemption is for official duty only.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, small arms ammunition is strictly prohibited in carry-on baggage. It must always be transported in your checked baggage only. This rule is in place to ensure the safety and security of all passengers and crew during the flight, preventing any potential hazards in the aircraft cabin.

Yes, there are limits. While a "reasonable amount for personal use" is generally allowed, international regulations (ICAO/IATA) and some airlines restrict this to a maximum of 5 kg (11 pounds) gross weight per passenger. It is crucial to confirm the exact quantity limit with your specific airline before your trip, as policies can vary.

Ammunition must be securely packed to prevent any hazards. It needs to be placed in boxes or other devices specifically designed to carry small amounts of ammunition. If you are transporting clips or magazines, they must also be securely boxed to ensure no ammunition is loose or exposed within your checked baggage.

These rules specifically apply to small arms ammunition, which includes cartridges up to 19.1 mm (.75 caliber) and shotgun shells. It's important to note that this does not include items like black powder, smokeless powder, primers, percussion caps, or homemade powder and ball loads for muzzle loading, which are generally forbidden.
This information is for guidance only. Your airline may apply different rules. Always check with your airline before travel.
Item Details
Item Name Small Arms Ammunition
Category Explosive