UPDATE: A traveler’s Xbox One X was confiscated by TSA agents at New Orleans Airport, sparking outrage and confusion. The incident unfolded as the passenger, known as Reddit user Various-Cut-1070, attempted to board a flight, only to be informed that his console contained a “mass” that flagged it as dangerous.
In a post shared on Reddit, the OP detailed how he had flown with the Xbox multiple times without issue. However, this time, TSA agents insisted that the console required further inspection due to the alarming readout during screening. “They said if it was just a power supply, it wouldn’t show up as red,” he reported, feeling frustrated and helpless.
Faced with the choice of waiting for a supervisor—potentially missing his flight—or abandoning the console, the gamer expressed his disappointment. “As a gamer who just wanted to get home and play after a long day of travel, I’m super bummed out,” he stated. Even worse, TSA officials informed him there would be no compensation for the incident, and he could not check in the Xbox as it was now flagged as a security risk.
Reddit users quickly chimed in, with many suggesting the OP should have waited for the supervisor. One commenter noted, “I’m pretty sure there’s a complaint form you can fill out. I would have waited and missed my flight tbh.” Some TSA employees also weighed in, acknowledging that the situation could have been handled better. “[Xboxes] look nasty on an X-ray,” one user pointed out, emphasizing the need for supervisors to be readily available for such cases.
After multiple calls and discussions, TSA eventually agreed to ship the Xbox back to the OP, but with a catch: he would have to cover a shipping fee of nearly $100. “Thank God it was just me and not someone trying to do others harm,” he said, reflecting on the gravity of the situation. As of now, he still does not have his Xbox back and is unable to travel with it again, a disappointing outcome for someone whose hobby revolves around gaming.
This incident highlights ongoing concerns about airport security protocols and their often unpredictable nature. Travelers are reminded to be cautious when packing electronics to avoid complications at security checkpoints.
As the story develops, it continues to resonate with many who travel frequently and rely on technology for leisure. For now, the OP’s experience serves as a cautionary tale about the risks of flying with gaming consoles and the sometimes bewildering nature of airport security.
Stay tuned for more updates.
