What Does ‘SSSS’ On Your Boarding Pass Mean?

If your boarding pass shows SSSS, you should expect extra screening at the airport. This can include:

• A more thorough pat-down
• Additional inspection of carry-on items
• Swabbing of personal belongings for explosive residue
• Additional questioning

The screening process usually takes place at the gate or a designated security area and can add extra time to your airport experience. For that reason, travelers with SSSS on their boarding pass are often advised to arrive earlier than usual.