PITTSBURGH - Two travelers face hefty fines and potential delays after Transportation Security Administration officers intercepted handguns in their carry-on luggage at Pittsburgh International Airport over the weekend.

The first incident occurred Saturday, September 7th, when a man from Belington, West Virginia, attempted to pass through security with a loaded 9mm handgun containing 12 bullets.

The second incident happened on Sunday, September 8th, when officers detected a .45 caliber firearm loaded with nine bullets, along with an additional nine rounds of ammunition, in the carry-on bag of a man from Houston, Pennsylvania.

"These firearms were discovered at our checkpoint just ahead of the 23rd anniversary of 9/11, a day that forever changed our nation's security landscape," said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA's Federal Security Director for Pittsburgh International Airport. "Let me be clear: guns are strictly prohibited on airplanes."

Both travelers will face significant civil penalties issued by the TSA. Federal regulations allow the agency to levy fines of up to $15,000 for bringing a weapon into a checkpoint, depending on the specific circumstances. The penalties apply regardless of whether a traveler possesses a concealed carry permit, as such permits do not authorize carrying firearms onto airplanes.

TSA PreCheck participants who attempt to bring a gun through security risk losing their expedited screening privileges.

Keys-Turner emphasized the importance of firearm owners being aware of the location of their weapons at all times. "Everyone flying needs to understand that weapons are not allowed past security checkpoints," she added. "Our officers are highly trained in detecting these threats, and everyone at TSA remembers the devastating impact of the 9/11 attacks."

When a firearm is detected in the X-ray unit, TSA protocols dictate stopping the conveyor belt and notifying law enforcement. Police officers then remove the firearm and determine whether the traveler will be arrested or issued a citation. These procedures can cause delays for other passengers waiting in line.

"Travelers are ultimately responsible for the contents of their carry-on baggage," said Keys-Turner. "These incidents resulted in delays for other passengers trying to reach their flights."

 Travelers unsure about the permissibility of carrying an item in their carry-on luggage can utilize the free myTSA app. The app features a "What Can I Bring?" tool that allows users to search for specific items and determine their air travel eligibility.

Passengers can also submit inquiries via Twitter or Facebook Messenger at @AskTSA or by texting "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872).