We view bankruptcy as a last resort but a necessary one because no other alternatives would allow us to change as rapidly as we need to.

This was a difficult but necessary step. Northwest's actions since filing bankruptcy along with the continuing distress affecting the entire industry requires us to change and to do so quickly.

We look forward to a good working relationship with our pilots and ALPA. This deal reflects the professionalism and contributions of our pilots and how important they are to the success of our airline.

The changes imposed on us by Northwest since its filing in September have left us with insufficient revenues to support our cost structure.