Update from my recent domestic air travel (AUS -IAD). Two procedural changes since last time I flew with guns:
1) only airline employee examines guns at their check-in counter. Same at both airports.
2) airline employee escorts you to TSA agent who only wants to see a locked case. No visual inspection by agent*.
At IAD, TSA agent sent case through x-ray and likely swabbed case exterior while I waited for the thumbs-up. This process was likely done at AUS but, behind closed doors. When arrived at IAD, case was further secured with a heavy zip tie. Must have been $10 retail; $100 govt LPTA price
Airline folks who handle guns and ammo are all over the place... Had to show one agent Deltas policy on ammunition weight when she was adamant about a 3 lb limit. Didnt even ask to see the ammo which is supposed to be in mfg packaging.
Anyhow, actually none of this was a big deal and the Pelican case carried well and held up perfectly.
-jmc
