TSA officers at Ohio airports discover training aid anti-tank mine, realistic replica pipe bomb at security checkpoints in one week

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers at two Ohio airports discovered prohibited replicas of explosive devices at the security checkpoint during routine screening in one week.

A training aid anti-tank mine was discovered at Dayton International Airport on June 3, and a realistic replica pipe bomb was detected at Rickenbacker International Airport in Columbus on June 8.

In both instances, TSA officers discovered the prohibited item in a traveler's carry-on bag. The officer immediately notified a TSA explosives specialist who determined the item was not an explosive hazard. Both passengers voluntarily abandoned the items as replicas of explosives, including training aids, which are prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage.

"I am proud of our dedicated officers who remain vigilant and work hard to keep our transportation systems secure and the traveling public safe," said TSA Deputy Federal Security Director for Ohio Daniel Narowitz. "When individuals bring prohibited items to our checkpoints, it significantly slows down the security screening process for other travelers."

To help travelers prepare for their flights, TSA provides the "What Can I Bring" page that allows travelers to type in an item to learn if it can be packed in a carry-on or checked bag. Another option is texting questions to 275-872 ("AskTSA") or through @AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger, where an automated virtual assistant is available 24/7.

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