[Kristie]

We really think it isn't going to happen... too much squabbling between NWA and Orient guys as they're kinda like AAA and HP right now (separated upon merger).

Delta pilots gave them their end of the deal and NWA so far has said ok but Orient has said absolutely NO WAY. since Orients guys are senior (to everyone), they don't want to lose their seniority. Delta guys would be merged with NWA guys based on seniority but Orient guys would be way above all the rest and that doesn't fly with the Delta guys.

So we just don't see it happening. If it did, we'd have another USAirways (AAA) vs AmWest (HP) debacle.

Plus, if the merger did go through, the airline would remain Delta and the hub would remain ATL, MSP would probably be closed and the state doesn't want to see that happen, so there are problems on that end as well.

I'm kinda hoping for the Delta/Alaska/United route myself. I think that would be a great combo (esp for international). i'm sure there will be some mergers and/or acquisitions among a few airlines this year, it just depends on who/when and how.

considering that Delta is still hiring like gangbusters and none of the hiring has slowed down (yet), i'd consider putting in an app. you just never know how many numbers he might get below him before things happen, then again, there's always that downside too... it's *always* a risk. but one things pretty darn sure, Delta would be the buyer so Delta would probably stay on top of the ladder...not sure how they'd do it but i'm pretty sure they'd be able to make a decent deal that benefits all delta pilots as well as the merging airlines pilots, they tend to be a pretty fair group from what i've seen/heard, then again, i'm not playing the game so i know i don't know all there is to know about what's going on so take my last few sentences with a grain of salt.