What does SSSS mean on your boarding pass?

Getty. An SSSS code on a boarding pass stands for “Secondary Security Screening Selection.” While somewhat of an annoyance, this code only means you have been flagged to undergo additional security screening procedures.

How can you avoid SSSS?

Unfortunately, there's no surefire way to prevent being selected for SSSS. However, if you notice that you're getting selected repeatedly, you can find out what a redress control number is and apply through the Department of Homeland Security Traveler Redress Inquiry Program (DHS TRIP).

Is SSSS permanent?

Will SSSS Keep Happening? This totally depends. I've had plenty of SSSS, either because my passport name didn't perfectly match my ticketed name, I booked a one way fare, or I grabbed a last minute seat. In these cases the SSSS typically goes away after just one unlucky trip.

Why passengers dread getting SSSS on a boarding pass?

Having 'SSSS' on a boarding pass will likely mean that it takes a longer time to clear security as passengers will undergo additional checks. These are not usually carried out separately but will delay you as part of the primary security screening.

How long does SSSS last?

An SSSS code stamped on your boarding pass overrides pre-approval through a Trusted Traveler Program such as TSA PreCheck and can add 15 to 45 minutes (or more) to your boarding process.

Why Passengers Dread Getting SSSS On A Boarding Pass

Do adults get SSSS?

SSSS in adults is a rare disorder, though there are now over 50 documented cases. Usually SSSS occurs in predisposed individuals, but not all adults have an underlying illness. Whereas mortality in childhood SSSS is approximately 4%, the mortality rate in adults is reported to be greater than 60%.

Who assigns SSSS on boarding pass?

The TSA can tag you with the SSSS code once or with regularity.

Are TSA random checks really random?

The security personnel at the gate do not use a random number generator to select passengers to check. Rather, they stand by the gate and approach people. Now, the last couple of occasions they have chosen me, I've asked them what criteria they used, and both times I was told it was random.

What triggers TSA screening?

TSA counts on the traveling public to report unattended bags or packages; individuals in possession of a threatening item; and persons trying to enter a restricted area or similar suspicious activities at airports, train stations, bus stops and ports. If You See Something, Say Something™.

How do you know if you are flagged by customs?

There are signs that will indicate you have been flagged for additional screenings: You were not able to print a boarding pass from an airline ticketing kiosk or from the internet. You were denied or delayed boarding. A ticket agent “called someone” before handing you a boarding pass.

Why do I always get flagged at the airport?

Tripping the system during a background check

Other times, you could engage in some type of suspicious travel activity that triggers an additional screening which could include things like: Visits to high-risk countries. Unusual travel patterns (last minute one-way flight) Paying cash for tickets.

Why pack a tennis ball in your luggage?

Tennis balls can put any fancy, expensive gadgets to shame when it comes to alleviating pain, improving circulation, and relieving tightness. And as it turns out, having one of these portable masseuses in your carry-on could prevent blood clots on long flights or road trips.

Can TSA check your phone?

TSA is not a law enforcement agency and therefore lacks certain types of search and seizure authority. According to communications from the TSA, the agency, “does not search electronic devices for electronic content that may be contained on the device, and does not extract data from passenger electronic devices.”

How do I add TSA PreCheck to my boarding pass?

Enter your PreCheck number during the booking process. After you've chosen your flight dates and times, you'll enter your name in the "Who's Flying?" section. Below that, there is a dropdown menu for "Secure Traveler Information." Click that button and then enter your PreCheck number in the "Known Traveler #" field.

How do I get TSA PreCheck on my boarding pass?

To receive TSA PreCheck®, you must include your Known Traveler Number (your CBP PASSID for Global Entry, NEXUS, or SENTRI members) in the appropriate field of your airline reservation, and the TSA PreCheck® indicator must be displayed on the boarding pass to access the lanes.

Why does TSA wipe your phone?

Why Does the TSA Swab Hands? The Transportation Security Administration randomly swabs passengers' hands at security checkpoints and airport gates to test them for traces of explosives.

Why does my groin area light up in airport security?

“If someone has something in their pockets, for instance, the machine will put an alarm note in the paper doll's groin region so the officer knows generally where to search.”

Why does TSA swipe your phone?

TSA protects transportation systems: they scan your luggage, ensure your ticket is valid, and provide airport security. The only reason they might be interested in your phone is if it looks suspicious. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), on the other hand, is a different story.

Who gets priority boarding on Southwest?

The first set of people to board Southwest flights are people with seats in A1-A15, which is typically filled with Southwest elite flyers, people who purchased Southwest Business Select fares and those who paid extra for their tickets before boarding (you can purchase any leftover upgraded boarding positions in the A1- ...

Can you get SSSS on a domestic flight?

First class or coach, travelers can earn this inconvenient designation on any flight, international or domestic. Some boarding passes will print with SSSS on them.

Where is SSSS on boarding pass?

If you find your boarding pass has SSSS printed in the upper left corner of your ticket it means you have been “randomly” chosen for Secondary Security Screening Selection.

What is the treatment for SSSS?

Patients with SSSS typically require hospital admission for intravenous antibiotic therapy and supportive care. When adequately treated, the prognosis is excellent. Most patients recover fully within two to three weeks without significant scarring, disfigurement, or other long-term sequelae.

Can SSSS recur?

Recurrent SSSS in neonates is extremely rare. A literature review revealed only 3 cases. Both Duijsters et al and Rieger-Fackeldey et al reported cases of premature infants with recurrent SSSS that occurred less than 1 month after initial diagnosis and treatment.

What are the risk factors of SSSS?

It can occur at any age, but children younger than age 6 are at highest risk. Other risk factors include: Weak immune system. Long-term (chronic) kidney disease or kidney failure.