# What Does “SSSS” On Airline Boarding Pass Mean? Get Ready For A Search!

_May 21 15:50_

Tags: policy change, service policy change

SSSS stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection. It indicates extra TSA screening due to unusual itineraries, list status, or random selection. Signs include inability to print mobile boarding passes

## Summary

SSSS on a boarding pass stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection, meaning the passenger will undergo an extra thorough search at security. Causes for selection include:
- Unusual itineraries (last-minute bookings, international one-way tickets, travel from high-risk countries)
- Being on a specific TSA list (causes vary by travel patterns, names, or monitoring status)
- Random selection Signs you may have SSSS:
- Inability to load a mobile boarding pass or print at home
- Error message indicating airport-only printing
- Seeing 'SSSS' printed on the boarding pass at the airport The screening process involves:
- A loud beep and red light when the initial TSA agent scans the pass
- Escort to a separate lane by a TSA lead or supervisor
- Walking through the metal detector multiple times
- Separation from other passengers' items using upside-down bins
- Cutting ahead of the general line The article notes that while the airline often claims selection is 'random,' it is frequently tied to specific travel patterns or list status. The author shares personal experience of receiving SSSS on every flight in 2017 due to unusual travel patterns

## Sources cited

- [One Mile at a Time](https://onemileatatime.com/guides/ssss-boarding-pass) — What Does “SSSS” On Airline Boarding Pass Mean? Get Ready For A Search!

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