There isn't [a need for CCW in order to check firearms as baggage]. The chief broke more than one law.
He broke the federal law that requires all firearms to be unloaded and declared, before being submitted for shipment in checked baggage.
He also broke the Michigan state law that requires handguns to be registered. (I think that law is still on the books). Again, this is not a registration of a person for carrying a concealead weapon, this is registration of the weapon to an owner, without the "right" to carry concealed. I'm not sure what triggers the obligation to register handguns to the Michigan authorities. Maybe Dan from MIchigan can summarize those requirements.
When I got my .45, I first had to go the Sheriff's office(some places go to local PD) to get a permit to purchase. Some places, that costs money, others do not. Livingston County wasn't a problem. I filled out a form, they called the FBI and I got the permit. It was almost like instacheck.
I then went to pick up the gun, showed the dealer the permit to purchase and got it. Then I went back to the Sheriff's office for the "safety inspection." I gave the desk clerk the gun and she gave it to the undersheriff(whom I know) and a few others. They pass the gun around in the back for about two minutes. (Hey, look at this!!) It passed, and I took the gun out the door.
If you bring a gun in from out of state, I know it has to be registered(er....safety inspection).