Several US airlines to ban packing guns on flights to Washington

Delta, United and American Airlines are refusing to allow passengers travelling to Washington next week to pack firearms in their checked luggage, citing safety concerns. United and American joined Delta on Thursday in taking the new safety measure as security in the US capital was ramped up in advance of Joe Biden’s inauguration as president on January 20. The airlines will begin enforcing the ban this weekend, and United said its policy would last until January 23. The airlines will to allow law enforcement officers to carry weapons in the baggage hold. Southwest is now the largest US carrier still allowing all passengers to carry weapons in their checked baggage. The airline said it was considering a temporary change to its policy. US airlines, their employees, federal agencies and lawmakers are grappling with aviation security in the wake of the January 6 riot at the US Capitol building. There have been multiple reports of Trump supporters causing disruptions on flights and at airports as they have travelled to and from Washington. Our first priority in aviation safety and security is to keep any problems on the ground<br/>