that passengers need to take this more seriously, too. >> it's a huge problem. as a passenger, i don't want to have another passenger flying on a flight with me with a gun in their possession. >> why do you think the numbers are up? >> i think it does reflect society. more people are carrying weapons just generally across the country. and then we see whatever is happening in the country we see reflected in our checkpoint operations. >> reporter: he underscores the issue of unruly passengers not only on board planes but also at security checkpoints. this simply shows that the system works. but there's a patchwork of gun laws, both state and local. the u.s. attorney's office in pennsylvania is now telling local sheriffs that they should take away concealed carry permits for those who violate these rules at airports. >> moving forward, holidays are coming up. obviously travel increases. also people are starting to feel more comfortable traveling because of the covid pandemic alleviating in many ways. how do you see this playing out?