Next month we have ATL-DFW on DL (I assume we will end up at an E gate) then DFW-AKL on AA in J (I assume leaving from D3x). We have to check bags unfortunately so we'll need to claim them at E. Is it best to take a landside shuttle to D and check bags with AA there or just go back up and check bags with AA at E then go through security there and take the train to D? Would like to limit walking distance as wife has some ankle issues. Thx
Edit: I see that DFW-AKL sometimes goes from A but we'll want to visit the FL and/or C1 lounges in D as we have a long layover.
Personally I'd avoid the Terminal Link shuttle and instead check your bags at the AA counter in E. Though this strategy may still entail a fair bit of walking. It seems that most Delta flights at DFW use E1x gates, but the American check-in counter at E is at E35. You can clear security at E33, right next to the counter, but TSA Pre✓ is not available at that checkpoint. (You may receive a card to skip the body scanner, or you might not). Luckily, the escalator to the Skylink train will be just past the E33 checkpoint.