Understanding the dreaded SSSS code on your boarding pass

A boarding pass is often an indication of happiness, it shows that your travel is now finally coming to realisation. But there is a little code that can change all that and turn your air travel experience into a nightmare. We are talking about the SSSS code. It stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection, and by the sound of it, you can understand that it does not seem fun.
This code in your boarding pass means that you are eligible for an enhanced screening. That dreaded term that often translates to harassment for innocent folks. The SSSS code can be included as late as 15 minutes before you board your flight. It is a tag that can turn your world upside down, and you can only hope that it is a glitch.

As the word enhanced goes, your secondary screening is not easy. It means that you will be separated from your travel companions, and everything from shoes to electronics will be thoroughly checked. Of course there is the patdown, which can make some very uncomfortable. Your luggage will be checked in and out, nothing is out of bounds. It is afterall a matter of security, and in the post 9/11 world, such a severe screening may be expected.

This strict measure is an American way of screening. So if you are travelling to America, you could get an SSSS on your boarding pass. The best way to go about it is to stay calm and composed, and allow the officials to do their job. Aggravating a situation does not help, especially where there are authorities involved.

So what triggers such a code? According to experts, you are inviting an SSSS code on your boarding pass if you have an inconsistent pattern. This means that last minute purchase of tickets could be a potential red flag. Or if you are flying too often all of a sudden, it could raise eyebrows.

However, all that can change if you apply for a redress online with the Department of Homeland Security. A thorough investigation of your documents will allow them to clear you from further enhanced screenings. You will be provided with a redress number, which you can put in when booking your tickets in the future. That should help you to travel smoothly, without any unnecessary hiccups.