What is being a “Selectee passenger”?
In airport security or aviation security, a “selectee passenger” is a traveler who has been chosen for additional screening processes or security checks.
These extra screenings or reviews may include a more thorough pat-down, a second X-ray of their carry-on bags, or a hand-wanding to look for any possible threats.
You might one day be classified as a “selectee” if you’re going to or from a US territory. Passengers are given the status of “selectee” if security randomly chooses them or if they are chosen because of their travel plans, their behavior, or prior security incidents. Increasing security and ensuring everyone’s safety are the objectives of these additional screening processes.
If you are designated as a “selectee” while traveling, here are some steps you can take:
1. Remain calm:
Remember that being selected for additional screening does not necessarily mean you are suspected of wrongdoing. Usually, you will be informed that you are a “selectee” during the check-in process. You will get an “SSSS boarding pass” as some people usually say. You will see the “SSSS” printed in bold on your boarding pass. This will generally surprise you, but if you know that everything is ok with you, nothing is wrong, and you have nothing to hide, you don’t have to be worried.
2. Follow the instructions:
If you are in a US Airport, follow the instructions of the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) officers and comply with their requests. The airline check-in agent will generally advise you about your “selectee” status at the check-in counter. But the rest of the process has nothing to do with the airlines. Everything will be managed by TSA officers. If you are traveling from another country, the airport security staff will follow all the steps with you.
3. Declare any items:
You will need to declare liquids, electronics, or medical devices that might set off an alarm during the screening process. To ensure that your travel is as smooth as possible, it’s important to cooperate with the security staff and understand their procedures.
4. Check your luggage:
Make sure that all of your luggage and personal items are properly screened and that nothing has been left behind. You submit all items the security staff will ask you to review, like a backpack, purse, etc. Do not try to hide anything, as this will cause delays and be viewed as suspicious behavior.
5. Ask questions:
If you have any questions or concerns about the screening process, feel free to ask the airport security officers for clarification. Or notify him of any necessary information, especially if you are accompanying an elderly person or someone who is sick or has a handicap. Avoid showing arrogance and discomfort when asking questions or engaging in conversation because you know that you are clean. This attitude will not help you.
6. Be patient:
Additional screening can take longer than regular security checks, so be prepared to wait a bit longer. Do not complain as a customer. Keep in mind that this procedure has nothing to do with customer service. All this is about security. While it may be frustrating to have to wait, it is important to remember that worse things will happen, if you turn the situation into something bad or unnecessary.
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Objectives
It is important to note that the TSA’s priority is to ensure the safety of all passengers traveling by air, and the additional screening procedures are part of this effort. These procedures apply to all flights coming into the United States or overflying any US territory. By following the advice above, you can help make sure that the screening process goes smoothly and quickly.
The “selectee” status can make travelers feel uncomfortable and scared, but it is an important part of airport security and an essential part of keeping flying safe and secure.
Important
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Francklin Pierre
Caribbean Social Communicator,
Community manager.
Promotor of Self-Leadership, Travel Safety,
Cultural Exchange and Culture of peace