If you’ve ever glanced at your boarding pass and wondered about the mysterious three-letter code “SEQ,” you’re not alone. Travel documents can be a bit confusing with funny codes like SBY and GTE for example. Fear not! – understanding what “SEQ” means on your boarding pass is simpler than you might think.
“SEQ” stands for “Sequence”.
Now that you know what SEQ means, what does ‘sequence’ mean on a boarding pass? Let’s find out below.
What does Sequence Mean on a Boarding Pass?:
In simple terms, sequence and the number next to it represents the order in which passengers have checked in for their flight.
For example, if your boarding pass displays “SEQ 002,” it means you’re the second person to have checked in for that flight. Conversely, if you see “SEQ 050,” you’re the fiftieth person who has checked in for their flight.
The Check-In Process:
Before understanding the importance of sequence numbers, let’s briefly review the check-in process. Check-in is the procedure through which passengers confirm their presence on a flight and receive their boarding passes. This can be done through various methods, including online check-in, mobile apps, or at the airport kiosks and counters.
I often get this done as soon as check in opens online. Seat selection is important so other than select a preferred seat at time of booking I kind of feel more at ease once i have checked in and have that boarding pass with all that valuable information confirmed. This is especially true if i haven’t been able to get a preferred seat and opt for the T80 rule on Qantas . I try and not leave anything to chance where i can.
Once I have checked in online and printed my boarding pass or saved it to my apple wallet (I do both!) i head on over to the baggage drop counter at the airport if i have luggage or straight to the gate if i am travelling light with carry on luggage.
As passengers complete the check-in process, the airline’s system assigns them a sequence number based on the chronological order of their check-in. This sequence number plays a crucial role in determining factors like boarding priority and seat allocation.
Early Check-In and SEQ:
One of the strategies savvy travellers employ to secure a favourable sequence number is early check-in. Airlines often open their check-in systems 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. By checking in as soon as this window opens, you increase the likelihood of receiving a lower sequence number. This can be particularly advantageous if you’re aiming for specific seats or if you prefer a stress-free boarding experience.
SEQ and Seat Selection:
While sequence numbers primarily dictate check in order, they may also influence seat selection. Some airlines use a combination of check-in time and sequence number to determine when passengers can select their seats. Lower sequence numbers often get the first pick, giving them a better chance of securing desirable seats, whether it’s an aisle, window, or extra-legroom option.
Boarding Groups
What is a boarding group on a boarding pass?
Another code you may see on your boarding pass is Group 1, Group 2, Group 3 and so forth.
A boarding group on a boarding pass indicates the order in which passengers will board the aircraft. Airlines often use a system of boarding groups to efficiently manage the boarding process and ensure a smooth flow of passengers onto the plane.
Boarding groups are typically assigned based on factors such as seat class, frequent flyer status, or boarding priority. Passengers with higher status or those who have purchased premium seats or people who require assistance may be assigned to earlier boarding groups, allowing them to board the plane before others.
The boarding pass usually displays both the boarding group and a corresponding letter or number. Passengers are called to board in groups, and each group is typically announced by airline staff at the gate. This system helps avoid congestion in the boarding area and speeds up the overall boarding process.
- Boarding Efficiency: Assigning boarding groups help streamline the boarding process, making it more organized and efficient. Passengers are called to board in a specific order, reducing congestion and speeding up the boarding time.
- Cabin Configuration: Airlines may have different cabin configurations, such as separate sections for business class, premium economy, and economy. Assigning Boarding Groups helps ensure that passengers board in a manner that aligns with the aircraft’s cabin layout.
- Priority Boarding: Airlines often offer priority boarding to certain passengers, such as those in premium cabins, frequent flyers, or those who have purchased priority boarding services. Assigning boarding Groups allows the airline to enforce these priorities and ensure that passengers board according to their designated status.
Summing Up
The sequence number on your boarding pass holds a key role. So does your Boarding Group Number. It signifies the order in which you checked in, your boarding priority and can influence your seat options. Embracing the simplicity of this concept, passengers can navigate the airport with greater ease and embark on their journey with a sense of order and organization. So, the next time you glance at your boarding pass and spot that sequence number and boarding group number – remember that it’s more than just a set of digits; it’s your ticket to a well organised and enjoyable travel experience. Don’t worry, it is not the dreaded SSSS and you wont have to deal with trying to get rid of the ssss on your boarding pass either.
And always remember never post you boarding pass on social media as there are great risks in doing so.
Happy travels!
