Civil Beat and the Honolulu Star-Advertiser have both run recent articles on improvements to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, which seems to be eternally in repair-and-maintenance mode.

Even though things do appear to be looking up, a new study once again gives a big thumbs down to HNL.

The J.D. Power 2019 North America Airport Satisfaction Study reports that Portland International Airport and Dallas Love Field give travelers the most satisfaction — “among the best” — in terms of large airports.

But HNL is second from the bottom — categorized as belonging among “the rest” — just ahead of LaGuardia Airport in New and just behind Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

Cory Lum/Civil Beat

For medium-sized airports, Indianapolis International gets the highest marks and Kahului Airport on Maui the lowest.

In terms of so-called “mega” airports, meanwhile, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County is best and Newark Liberty International Airport worst.

“Scaffolding and cranes are official welcome signs to several North American airports these days as record passenger volumes force major expansion efforts,” the study explains.

“However, the road closures, confusing signage and delays that come with these projects are making it hard on passengers, and that disruption is evident in the results of the J.D. Power 2019 North America Airport Satisfaction Study.”

On a positive note for HNL — where completion of work is on the near horizon — the study says is this: “The common bond among top-performing airports such as Detroit Metropolitan, Portland International and Indianapolis International is relatively new facilities that accommodate increased passenger volume, incorporate localized food and beverage offerings and offer easy access.”