1st time flying with a firearm

[illinoisdeerhunter]

In a couple of weeks I'll be flying for the first time with a firearm. I'm heading out of state with my shotgun. I'll be flying on Air Tran. I talked to Air Tran and it sounds as if I only need the following to legally take my shotgun;
1-gun must be unloaded
2-gun must be in a hard lockable case
3-ammo must NOT be shipped in the same case
4-firearm must be declared at check-in and visually inspected then locked up.

I plan on breaking down my shotgun so that I can use a 26" hard suit case and put it in with my hunting gear. I really don't want to make it conspicuous that I'm travelling with a gun by using a hard gun case.
I'll buy ammo when I arrive.

Any additional advice, cautions or warning?

 

[Winchester 73]

Relax,fill out Declaration of Firearm(s)form at the counter and have a great trip.Ammo should be in original factory box and can be in the same case on most airlines.You have the rest of the drill correct.
I've flown with firearms dozens of times.At least 10 to O'Hare and Midway.A piece of cake.
Don't worry,be happy.

 

[MIL-DOT]

Yes, as Winchester 73 said, it seems most airlines let/prefer you to pack the ammo in the same hardcase, but obviously, you should follow what AirTran tells you if that's who you're flying with.

 

[ReadyontheRight]

Watch out for the weight restriction. 50 pounds is very easy to hit with guns and accessories.