✈ What to Do if You See SSSS on Your Boarding Pass, Trump’s DOT Cancels Airline Consumer Protections & More News From TPG ✈

Plus: NYC's W Union Square just got a $100,000 million renovation — and a swanky rooftop bar

September 6, 2025 View in browser

Prepare but don't panic by Ben Smithson, Senior writer More than once, I've checked in for a flight and printed my boarding pass — only to notice four dreaded letters on the lower right: SSSS. If this happens to you, don't panic. It doesn't mean you'll miss your flight. Just follow this advice. What is SSSS? This stands for Secondary Security Screening Selection. It's not a mistake, and even Trusted Traveler members with TSA PreCheck or Global Entry aren't immune. It can occur at both U.S. airports and foreign airports for flights to the United States. Why would it happen to you? The Transportation Security Administration doesn't share exact criteria, but its Secure Flight system uses risk analysis and a random element. But there are a few triggers. How will you know if you've been flagged? Online check-in may be blocked, requiring you to see an agent. When printed, your boarding pass will display SSSS in bold letters, and you'll be directed to standard lanes instead of the TSA PreCheck lanes. Read more about the additional security checks involved, how you can prepare and what to do if it keeps happening to you. Overall, plan ahead and try to stay calm. Want to know more about advanced security screening? Check out these stories: What to do if your boarding pass isn't marked TSA PreCheck 8 ways to get free or discounted TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and Clear How early should you get to the airport? The best credit cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry We went through security on Real ID's first day — here's what to expect Posts in this newsletter contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products, and this may impact how or where they appear. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page. Photo Credit: BING GUAN/BLOOMBERG/GETTY IMAGES.

Today's top stories Trump's DOT cancels compensation for airline delays and cancellations The Trump administration withdrew a Biden-era proposal to compensate passengers at least $200 when their flight is delayed or canceled. Read more NYC's W Union Square just got a $100,000 million renovation — and a swanky rooftop bar Here's everything you need to know about the redesigned W Union Square in New York City. Read more IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card review: Valuable benefits for IHG loyalists If you're a loyal IHG traveler, the IHG Premier Card is a must-have due to its anniversary free night and other key perks. Here are the details. Read more Best hotels in Las Vegas for a Sin City getaway These are the best hotels in Las Vegas, from large casinos to iconic residences and even hotels you can book with points. Read more Deal alert: Points and miles travel deals for September 2025 Save, maximize and earn points and miles on various travel purchases this September. Read more

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