Have you really looked at your boarding pass? All of it? Have you seen a code you weren’t familiar with?
One code you really don’t want to see are the letters SSSS. For one thing, your security process will no doubt take a lot longer. Why?
Those four letters mean Secondary Security Screening Selection. That means you are one who has been selected for a security screening different than everyone else. It most likely means a full pat down, additional portable metal detectors, your carry-on luggage examined fully, and additional scrutiny.
According to a TSA spokesperson, passengers who have the code on their boarding passes are selected through the TSA’s Security Flight System, a prescreening program that identifies both low and high-risk passengers before they get to the airport.
This system matches names against trusted traveler lists and the TSA’s watchlist. They also said it could just be a random selection and nothing you’ve ever done.
Chances are if you have SSSS, you won’t be able to print your boarding pass online at home or at a hotel. If that happens, make sure you get to the airport early and allow enough extra time for the screening process.
What can you do in addition? TSA says you can apply for a Redress Number. If you have had the SSSS show up more than once, this would be a good thing to look into. Basically, it’s a case number specifically for you. This would clear up any confusion if your name matches or is similar to someone who really is on a Homeland Security watch list or has given TSA a reason to perform extra screening.