More than once, I’ve checked in for a flight and printed my boarding pass — only to notice four dreaded letters on the lower right: SSSS.
If this happens to you, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean you’ll miss your flight. Just follow this advice.
What is SSSS?
This stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection. It’s not a mistake, and even Trusted Traveler members with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry aren’t immune. It can occur at both U.S. airports and foreign airports for flights to the United States.
Why would it happen to you?
The Transportation Security Administration doesn’t share exact criteria, but its Secure Flight system uses risk analysis and a random element. But there are a few triggers.
How will you know if you’ve been flagged?
Online check-in may be blocked, requiring you to see an agent. When printed, your boarding pass will display SSSS in bold letters, and you’ll be directed to standard lanes instead of the TSA PreCheck lanes.
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