Locals start holiday early with travel by car, plane, train

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- In the Philadelphia area, nine out of 10 people will travel by car this holiday with the cheapest gas prices in seven years fueling annual commutes to see loved ones.

In the air, TSA nationally is expecting the biggest number of holiday passengers in its 14-year history.

At Philadelphia International Airport, this will be the first Thanksgiving where US Airways has been replaced by American Airlines.

Travelers will have to know which one of five terminals to go to, and become familiar with new service kiosks.

Given there will be big crowds, Victoria Lupica of America Airlines says, "We're recommending, along with the TSA, (to arrive) at least two hours prior to departure because we want to make sure that your experience is enjoyable and comfortable."

On Friday, 34,000 out of American's 39,000 seats were filled. But flyers like Mary Alice Horner of Cleveland said service was, "perfect, no problem."

Amtrak is also expecting big crowds so it is adding extra cars, trains and security.

"People can expect to see Amtrak police out along the railroad, on our trains, in our stations," said Craig Schultz. "They will maintain a very robust presence as they always do, but especially around the holiday, especially given the recent events."

There will be changes on Amtrak this holiday period. Travelers who don't want to sit in the main waiting room can buy a day pass to the quieter club Acela.

For $25 they can also bring a cat or small dog with them in a carrier this Thanksgiving.