Weapons and Travel Do Not Mix!
Learn more about FLL's "Pack The Fun, No Carry-On Gun" public awareness campaign
Did you know that if caught with a weapon through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger screening checkpoints, even if you have a concealed weapons permit, your travel plans will be interrupted?
In 2023, the TSA intercepted 135 guns at FLL during the year, ranking it ninth among the top 10 U.S. airports with the highest number of firearms found at security checkpoints. That compares to 134 firearms discovered in 2022, 128 in 2021, and 87 in 2020.
In October 2019, the Broward County Aviation Department joined forces with local and federal law enforcement partners to launch the "Pack the Fun, Not the Gun" ("No Carry-On Gun") public awareness campaign to remind travelers it is illegal to enter a TSA passenger screening checkpoint with a weapon. The intent was to convey clearly that weapons and airports don’t mix. In 2019, the TSA stopped 100 guns at FLL security checkpoints.
Our primary goal is to create public awareness about the dangers and consequences of traveling with weapons. Ninety-nine percent of travelers caught with illegal weapons at the checkpoint say they packed them by mistake or simply forgot they were in their carry-on bags. This ongoing campaign serves as a reminder to our guests to leave weapons at home. If you plan to travel with a licensed firearm, the TSA says it should be unloaded, packed in a special locked container, declared with your airline, and transported as checked luggage.
TSA penalties for firearms may cost more than $10,000, as well as an arrest. Watch the TSA's "Traveling with Firearms" video to learn more.
Updated: February 2024
"Ride Safe" Campaign
At FLL, we're committed to providing all airport guests with a safe and welcoming environment. That's one reason we have a Ride Safe Campaign reminding travelers to make smart decisions, not risky ones, when considering ground transportation options at FLL. It's also our way of reinforcing our commitment to a hassle-free airport environment. In addition to posting Ride Safe messaging on baggage claim carousels, terminal vestibule doors, flight information display screens, and over the terminals' public address system, we promote the campaign via the airport's website and social media.
We're notifying these unauthorized transportation providers to cease this illegal activity at FLL.
In June 2023, FLL launched a new Ground Transportation Enforcement Team to concentrate efforts on identifying and deterring these solicitors. During its first six months of operations, the team issued nearly 200 ground transportation citations (22 for solicitation). As FLL's operator, the Broward County Aviation Department conducts joint undercover enforcement efforts with the Broward Sheriff's Office, our law enforcement partner, to identify and deter these ride solicitors. Eight undercover operations occurred from June to December 2023, resulting in multiple citations and trespass warnings.
Notably, most ground transportation (GT) movements from FLL are by legitimate and authorized entities, including taxis and Transportation Network Company entities (ride shares). In 2023 alone, we had more than three million of these types of authorized GT operations.
Again, for your safety and the security of your personal belongings, always visit the Ground Transportation desk in baggage claim at each terminal or speak with uniformed airport personnel at designated curbside stands to find a legitimate provider.
Updated: February 2024
Pedestrian Crosswalk Safety UpgradesAs airline passenger volume and vehicular traffic continue to grow at FLL, our goal is to provide a safer environment for pedestrians and motorists using the airport's terminal roadways. In 2019, the Aviation Department installed a new pedestrian crossing signal system to more efficiently and effectively operate the lower-level crosswalks outside of Terminals 2, 3, and 4.
Crosswalk improvements included an audible pedestrian-activated signal system, enhanced overhead lighting, new traffic signals, and new warning signs and pavement markings for drivers. Additionally, ADA-accessible ramps were installed on both sides of the curb, including impact bollards for pedestrian and terminal safety. Curbside passenger waiting areas are now more spacious.
Working Smarter to Make FLL Safer
At FLL, it is important to us that you experience a smoother, more comfortable visit. One of the most important ways we’re delivering on that promise is through a new infrastructure upgrade to improve traffic flow and passenger safety. This upgrade will reduce disruption and congestion on main airport roadways and outside terminal areas.
It also changes the way you travel through our airport as a driver and/or pedestrian on upcoming visits.
Be aware of new signs and signals
You’ll be seeing new traffic signals and signs in our Arrival Level, outside roadway crossing areas, that weren’t there before. Help us keep everyone safe by staying aware and complying with these new safety signals:
Working smarter to make FLL safer.
As we continue with these and other upgrades, we appreciate your patience – and promise that you’ll love the results. We’re working smarter to assure you a safer, better airport experience.
FLL Emergency Notification and Communication Update
CEO/Aviation Director Mark Gale's presentation to the Broward County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, June 11, 2019 - Read and/or print the Emergency Notification and Communication presentation (PDF)
