Guns in cockpit (not FFDO)

jgheggie

Well-Known Member
I am curious if anyone knows the federal laws pertaining to carrying a pistol in the cockpit. I am referring to carrying one in private flight operations such as part 91. Or even 135???

I know all about the FFDO laws and limitations. But it is my understanding that federal flight deck officers are only in part 121?? Is this right?

Basically I want to know if I can have my pistol in my flight bag when flying a cessna for some time building. Also, if the employer allows it, can I have it in 91 and/or 135 ops? Any extra federal training needed?

Please DO NOT turn this into a political debate about why I should not own my guns. I like them, I hunt, I shoot, so I own them :). And if I ever become a 121 pilot I fully plan to be a FFDO! Thanks!
 
135, refer to your GOM (duh). 91, as long as you follow applicable federal, state, and local laws you can carry all the guns you want in your aircraft.
 
So by federal, state, and local...you mean the same laws regarding transport in a car? I was just curious if there are any laws or FAA regs that differ from the normal firearms laws in cars and on the ground.
 
State and local, just treat it like a car. Federal (when you are in the are), there are no applicable carry rules.
 
There are no applicable federal laws.. Those would be state laws if you land in state (intentionally or not)...

Other than don't inadvertently carry on any federal lands, or the secure area of an airport.. Again, on the ground.
 
Don't underestimate the complexity of some state's gun laws, some states actually want to test every model that is allowed for sale. If they didn't test them, they aren't allowed in the state. (CA and MA) come to mind. But there are a lot of websites dedicated to the state's rules. Also, some states let local municipalities make their own more restrictive rules. You will be lucky to find these well documented, other states don't allow this and once you learn the state rules you are good.
 
Don't underestimate the complexity of some state's gun laws, some states actually want to test every model that is allowed for sale. If they didn't test them, they aren't allowed in the state. (CA and MA) come to mind. But there are a lot of websites dedicated to the state's rules. Also, some states let local municipalities make their own more restrictive rules. You will be lucky to find these well documented, other states don't allow this and once you learn the state rules you are good.
Some states (California).

The roster is actually being challenged. As pro-gun control (and a gun owner, mind) as I am, the roster is really pushing the Constitutional envelope.

also, it's unlawful for a municipality in CA to regulate firearms. See e.g. SFO Proposition H.
 
Your biggest concern will be if you have to overnight somewhere unplanned, or worse your unplanned stop involves a LEO visit.. Worst case, just take a small travel lockable safe with you.
 
I have a legal concealed carry permit in the state of California. So california is the least of my worries. California seems to be the strictest state pertaining to gun laws. As long as there are no faa or tsa laws restricting me then I know all of the laws pertaining to ground interstate travel.

Thanks!
 
Check the with AOPA. The can be carried part 91 as long you abide by local and state rules. Getting back on to some airports could become an issue with them.

In Alaska it would be a good idea for survival alone if you go down.
 
That's my thought process on it. I also plan to fly to some rural grass strips and might get caught up with a fox on the runway lol

One of my favorite flights ever was flying a rancher around in his Citabria, low and slow, over his land while he sat in the front seat and shot at Coyotes with a .223. Legal? Who knows.
 
One of my favorite flights ever was flying a rancher around in his Citabria, low and slow, over his land while he sat in the front seat and shot at Coyotes with a .223. Legal? Who knows.
his land

In Texas we hunt hogs form the air as well.
 
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