A $20 billion deal to combine Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines was in "serious jeopardy" late Tuesday because the pilots unions from both companies were unable to reach an agreement on blending their seniority lists, two people close to talks told The Associated Press.
Talk of airline consolidation has heightened in recent months amid high fuel prices, which are eating profits.
The people said the pilots unions have agreed on a comprehensive joint contract, but they are unable to agree to how seniority for the 12,000 pilots would work under a combined carrier. The people asked not to be named because of the sensitive stage of the talks.
They said that the pilot talks were expected to continue Wednesday, but if no agreement is reached, the combination of the two airlines would be in "serious jeopardy." |