Manila: Office for Transportation Security (OTS) Administrator Arthur Bisnar on Friday reminded passengers that airsoft guns and pellet guns are strictly prohibited in airports. "Carrying such objects can cause disruptions to airport security screening operations and will result in immediate flagging by OTS security screening officers," he told the Philippine News Agency.

According to Philippines News Agency, Bisnar explained that airsoft and pellet guns have similar characteristics with a real gun. "To ensure smooth travel experience, please refrain from bringing these items and check for the OTS prohibited items list before the scheduled departure," he added.

Bisnar's reminder comes as a screening personnel intercepted a pellet gun from a passenger at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 2 last April 28. The pellet gun, according to the OTS, was noticed during baggage X-ray screening. It belonged to a Caticlan-bound foreigner.

The prohibited item was turned over to the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group for proper disposition while the passenger was later allowed to board his flight, the OTS said.