True or False: State, local and tribal law enforcement officers may travel armed on an aircraft simply by showing their badge.

The statement is false. State, local, and tribal law enforcement officers are not permitted to travel armed on an aircraft simply by showing their badge. In general, federal regulations dictate that carrying firearms on commercial flights is heavily restricted, and there are specific protocols that need to be followed.

Law enforcement officers must comply with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations, which require that any officer wishing to travel with a firearm declares it to the airline beforehand and secures necessary authorizations. This ensures that security protocols are maintained, and threats to aviation safety are minimized.

Merely showing a badge does not meet the criteria set forth by TSA and other aviation security laws, which have been established to safeguard all passengers and crew on commercial flights. Hence, having the appropriate prior authorization is crucial for law enforcement personnel traveling with firearms.