Can Military Carry Guns on Planes?
The ability for military personnel to carry firearms on planes is a topic that has both historical and current significance. While regulations have become stringent over time, there are instances where carrying guns has been permitted or even essential for various missions.
Historical Context of Military Firearms on Planes
One of the earliest examples of military firearms being used on planes was the M30 Luftwaffe Drilling, which saw use by German pilots in North Africa during World War II. This weapon featured two side-by-side 12 Gauge shotgun barrels above and a rifle barrel below, intended for hunting and self-defense against natural predators.
Similarly, during the early days of naval aviation, the U.S. Navy standard sidearm for pilots was the 38-caliber revolver. However, this changed over time, and today, naval aviators carry a 9mm semi-automatic Beretta pistol, which first entered service in 1985.
A resurgence of revolver usage emerged during World War I when there was a shortage of Colt M1911 pistols. To address this, the U.S. military turned to Colt and Smith Wesson to adapt their heavy-frame civilian revolvers to the standard. The result was the M1917 Revolver, a significant blend of civilian and military firearm technology.
Current Regulations and Procedures
While military personnel may still carry guns on planes, there are specific regulations they must follow. These regulations ensure safety and comply with aviation laws.
Generally, firearms must be unloaded when carried on the plane. Additionally, personnel must declare their possession of firearms at the time of check-in and provide necessary documentation. This requirement is crucial for safety and legal compliance.
If a military crew member needs to carry a firearm, they must adhere to these rules to prevent any incidents or disruptions during the flight. This includes proper handling, storage, and reporting procedures to ensure the safety of all onboard.
Survival Equipment
One of the most interesting aspects of military firearms on planes is the presence of survival equipment. Various types of firearms were designed for specific missions, such as the M6 Aircrew Survival Weapon, issued from 1952 to the early 1970s.
The M6 was originally developed in 1946 and designated as a Rifle-Shotgun Survival Caliber .22/.410. It was designed to fit into the standard USAAF (later USAF) survival kit issued to pilots flying over Arctic and other uninhabited regions. This firearm was crucial for survival in remote areas where backup was unlikely.
Since 1959, the U.S. Air Force has chosen a compact “survival” rifle in .22 LR. This rifle, originally designed by Eugene Stoner, became the AR-7. While the AR-7 is reliable in many conditions, its performance can be highly dependent on the condition of the magazines and the ammunition used. Recently, newer models from Henry have improved upon the original design, adding even more reliability.
Conclusion
The carrying of military firearms on planes has a rich history, serving both practical and tactical purposes. Today, strict regulations are in place to ensure safety and compliance. Whether for self-defense, survival, or mission-critical operations, the responsible handling of firearms on aircraft remains a crucial aspect of aviation safety and military operations.