MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Transportation Security Administration officials at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport reportedly thwarted an attempt to bring a handgun onboard an airplane.

The incident, which took place on Monday, Sept. 25, took place at around 5:30 a.m. during routine carry-on luggage screening. TSA officers immediately notified the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office upon identifying the image of the handgun on the X-ray screen.

A deputy arrived at the checkpoint and seized the firearm, which was unloaded.

Wisconsin TSA Federal Security Director Mark Lendvay addressed the event in a Tuesday, Sept. 26 press release, stating, “Bringing a firearm to a security checkpoint not only slows down the individuals in that lane, but it slows everyone in line behind them down and is a security and safety concern.”

This marks the 16th firearm intercepted at MKE this year. In 2022, the airport reported 21 such incidents. Violators may face penalties up to $14,950 and can lose TSA PreCheck eligibility for a minimum of five years.

Travelers may transport firearms in checked baggage under specific conditions and must adhere to state and local laws.

For official TSA recommendations on how to properly travel with a firearm, click here.