A Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent is examining an airline passenger at O’Hare International Airport on October 19, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois.
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Delta Air Lines will not allow passengers flying to airports serving the Washington metropolitan area to check firearms on flights ahead of the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden, Ed Bastian told CNBC on Thursday.
The new policy, which begins this weekend and takes place next week, comes after last week’s deadly pro-Trump revolt in the US Chapter and a series of politically motivated riots on flights and airports. Law enforcement officers authorized to carry firearms will be exempt.
“We’re all on high alert based on the events of the last two weeks in Washington,” Bastian said in an interview with Squawk Box.
The Federal Aviation Administration said on Wednesday it would adopt a zero-tolerance policy for passengers who are unruly or interfere with the duties of the flight crew, fining them up to $ 35,000.
Airlines, airports and hotels are stepping up security ahead of Wednesday’s inauguration. Several airports have said they will add more police officers, while airlines increase their staff and book crews overnight at airport hotels. American Airlines said late Wednesday that it would suspend alcohol sales for DC flights.