✈️ What Does ‘SSSS’ on Your Boarding Pass Mean?

Longer Wait Time

Add 5–15 minutes to your security process.

Best to arrive extra early (at least 2 hours before domestic flights).

Good news: This screening happens before the regular checkpoint—so once you’re through, you can proceed normally.

Why Did I Get Flagged? (Spoiler: It’s Usually Random)

The truth?

You likely did nothing wrong.

Common reasons for SSSS selection:

Random selection —part of routine security rotation

Name similarity —common names that match watchlist entries (e.g., “Ahmed Khan”)

You’ll undergo additional screening at the checkpoint.

What Happens During SSSS Screening?

When you see “SSSS” on your boarding pass, here’s what to expect:

Extra Pat-Down or Swabbing