Connections through Dulles?

[Matt_WY]

Anyone have any experiences (good or bad) transporting firearms through Dulles? Potentially connecting there on way to Tanzania and will need to transition from United to Ethiopian.

 

[Ridge Runner]

Since you are making a connection, Are your checked bag(s) and firearms checked through to your destination?

My 2018 trip originated out of Dulles.

No real problems with firearms getting checked......However.....make sure at the check in counter that the person checking your firearms inserts the firearm check card into your firearm case.

Here's what happened:

I arrived about 2 1/2 hours early, when check in opened I was 2nd or 3rd in line, asked the clerk about my firearms, stepped to the side, a second clerk and I checked my firearm, and he asked me about ammo, I replied it was in my checked bag in lock box per TSA/ airline regulations, no problem. I then asked about the check card for my firearm that was to be enclosed in and with my firearm. Clerk said, it's okay we checked it, for me to go ahead lock it, pointed to the TSA counter for me to go, while he would escort my firearm over to TSA.

TSA: Okay, you're good.
Me: proceeded through passenger check in, rather quick, not much of a line, maybe 2 minutes. Didn't get 15 paces/steps other side, when my name was called to return to the TSA counter.

I identified myself, was asked/escorted into the TSA section, ask to open my gun case, and asked where is the firearms check card? I explained what had happened at check in, that the previous agent said, I was good to proceed to my gate?

This TSA agent handed me my firearms case and escorted me over to the check in counter, he then consulted with the fellow that was present and checked my firearm. The clerk's supervisor was called to the counter, and I received my firearms checked card that remains with and inside the firearms case. This took all of less than 10 minutes.

The TSA agent took the firearms case and we went back to the TSA area, the TSA agent along with a 2nd agent checked to insure no ammo in the gun case, chamber or mag, had me replace my firearm into the case, lock it, and told me, you are okay to proceed on.

Less than 20 minutes for this whole event.

Unfortunately by this time, going through the ticket passenger only mess, took about 25 minutes or so, as the lines were long and slow.

Everyone was friendly, helpful, and respectful, toward me.

 

[JimP]

Never trust one of the checkin clerks when you know better

 

[gillettehunter]

One of my trips went through Dulles on my return. Had to change terminals. So I had to carry my firearm case to the new terminal and re check it after being examined by a police officer and TSA. Just some extra steps. Have enough time and it should be fine.
Bruce

 

[Matt_WY]

I actually have to over night there, so I will pick up from United one evening and then recheck with Ethiopian for the flight to Addis Ababa the next morning. So I will have plenty of time.

Thanks for the guidance. I'll be sure to have the firearm check card is in the case for sure. They seem pretty good about that in Billings as they see lots of rifles go through there.

 

[Ridgewalker]

I’m looking forward to your report from such a grand place!
When are you going?
Best of luck!

 

[Matt_WY]

Thanks @Ridgewalker. I am definitely looking forward to it. Still have my fingers crossed that it happens with all the flight changes etc. Trip report will definitely follow.