Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (D/FW), bigger than the island of Manhattan, is often cursed by connecting passengers. But flying to Dallas is very different than flying through. Baggage claim is a quick stroll from the gates, and taxi lines are short. A central car-rental area is served by shuttle bus.

The airport is nearly through a multi-billion-dollar makeover. Terminal D, which opened in July 2005, serves international carriers and some domestic American Airlines flights.

It’s connected to a new Grand Hyatt hotel, with meeting space, a fitness center and a pool. And D/FW recently debuted Skylink, a 30-mph train that circles the airport in nine minutes, which should cut down on complaints from connecting passengers.

The airport is halfway between Dallas and Fort Worth, and taxis to downtown Dallas run $38. There is limited train service. (Check www.trinityrailwayexpress.org.)

Dallas’ second airport, Love Field, is closer to downtown. Service is only available to cities in Texas and nearby states, though.