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Updated 04/06/2012 03:07 PM

Holiday travel up two percent

Gas prices are the highest they've been in years, but that doesn't seem to be stopping people from traveling. AAA says more people are heading out of town this year. Our Katie Gibas tells us what the crowds at the airport are like and how the plan for a smooth trip.

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SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- If you're planning on traveling over the next few weeks, you may notice the lines at the airport are a little longer.

"We’re definitely noticing more people in the terminal building. The open lot is full. There's still some parking in the garage, but we're definitely seeing an increase in travelers. Everyone is aware that this is going to be a busy week. Folks from the parking lot to the ticket counter, to TSA, they're ready for the increase in traffic," said Christina Reale, the Syracuse Aviation Commissioner

AAA says they've seen a two percent increase over last year in the number of people traveling this spring break. And experts anticipate the airports will be busy for the next several weeks.

"We do have an interesting scenario this year. Next week will certainly be the most popular travel week. However, we do have people traveling the following week as well. And that's due to a change in the school break schedule. From here on out, starting with Good Friday through the week of April 9th and also the week of April 16th, will be a busy travel period," said Diana Dibble, the AAA WNY & CNY Public Affairs Manager.

Even though fuel prices are on the rise, the highest they've been in years, the price doesn't seem to be affecting travelers.

"What we find with school break periods is people plan far ahead, they take vacations off, they budget in advance. So they're really looking forward to that getaway. They're looking for ways to offset that. For example, they might not be driving as far. They might not spend as much on meals while they're away or on shopping or some of their entertainment, but people are still traveling," said Dibble.

If you are heading out to the airport, don't forget to plan ahead. Make sure to arrive an hour and a half early to leave enough time to park, check in and make it through security. And with a busy travel week, patience will be key.