Originally Posted by
fairviewroad
Even so, a train in the middle of the day is not likely to be crowded with commuters seeking an alternative to buses and subways. It's probably a safe bet.
On one hand, the OP is going to the airport and I don't think that the R1 would be crowded late in the morning. On the other hand, Market East, Suburban Station and 30th Street handle more than just the R1 (obviously). So there are going to be crowded conditions.
Originally Posted by philly.com
7. Be prepared to line up for access to your train in Center City. Access to the platforms will be limited both for safety purposes and for fare control. Wear comfortable shoes and bring something to read while you wait.
My first option would still be the train and get to the station early. My second option would be a cab (and be aware that the city is letting cabbies wait for additional fares to share a ride). Heck, if the OP has any reason to be in University City the morning of his departure, it would make sense just to pick up the R1 there.