The Lead Off

• TSA officers discovered a replica pipe bomb in a passenger’s carry-on bag at Rickenbacker International Airport this week.
• A separate replica anti-tank mine was found in a carry-on bag at Dayton International Airport earlier this month.
• Both items were determined to be non-hazardous, but officials say such items are prohibited in all luggage and can delay airport screening operations.

COLUMBUS, OH (WOWO) Transportation Security Administration officers intercepted replica explosive devices at two Ohio airports within the past week, including a replica pipe bomb discovered at Rickenbacker International Airport in Columbus.

According to the TSA, the incidents occurred during routine security screening operations and involved prohibited items found in passengers’ carry-on luggage.

Replica pipe bomb found at Rickenbacker

NBC4i reports that TSA officers discovered a replica pipe bomb Monday while screening a passenger’s carry-on bag at Rickenbacker International Airport.

After further examination, authorities determined the device was not hazardous. The passenger voluntarily surrendered the item, and no injuries or security threats were reported.

The agency noted that replica explosives are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Second incident reported at Dayton airport

The discovery at Rickenbacker followed a similar incident at Dayton International Airport on June 3.

In that case, TSA officers found a training aid anti-tank mine inside a passenger’s carry-on bag during security screening.

Officials said the device was also determined to be non-hazardous and was voluntarily relinquished by the traveler.

TSA highlights screening delays

TSA officials said prohibited items such as replica explosives can create significant disruptions at security checkpoints.

“When individuals bring prohibited items to our checkpoints, it significantly slows down the security screening process for other travelers,” said Daniel Narowitz, TSA Deputy Federal Security Director for Ohio.

The agency emphasized that even inert training devices and replicas are subject to the same restrictions because they can resemble actual explosive devices and require additional inspection.

Travelers encouraged to check restrictions

The TSA is reminding travelers to review current regulations before arriving at the airport to avoid delays and potential enforcement actions.

Officials said travelers can consult the agency’s guidance on prohibited and permitted items before packing luggage.

The agency also noted that unusual prohibited items continue to appear at Ohio airports. In 2025, bullets and knives wrapped in aluminum foil discovered at Akron-Canton Airport were included on the TSA’s annual list of unusual checkpoint finds.

The Takeaway

Two replica explosive devices intercepted

TSA officers found a replica pipe bomb at Rickenbacker International Airport and a training aid anti-tank mine at Dayton International Airport during routine passenger screenings.

No hazards were identified

Authorities determined both items were non-hazardous, and the passengers voluntarily surrendered the devices without incident.

TSA warns travelers to check baggage rules

Agency officials say prohibited items can slow checkpoint operations and are encouraging passengers to review TSA regulations before traveling.

TSA officials will continue routine screening operations at airports across Ohio and are reminding travelers that replica explosives, military training aids, and similar items remain prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.