Originally Posted by
SATTSO
Its only the luggage with a firearm inside, and because it is not locked. Which is an FAA requirement. Not sure if airline policy is simply that because of the FAA, or if they collectively actively wish that, too.
It would only be unlocked if you (TSA) ignored the FAR and opened the luggage without the passenger present. This is why I have very good locks that most bolt cutters can't touch.... and my name and number etched near the locks.
Of course, the TSA could relock the hypothetical luggage with one of the many locks that they "forget" to put back on opened bags daily and ship it on to the rightful owner.