Strike Could Come Friday

A new contract offer to Northwest Airlines from its mechanics didn't contain the concessions needed for the carrier to stay afloat, according to a company statement. A strike deadline of midnight Friday looked more and more likely, even as Northwest said it was prepared to conduct business as usual if the mechanics walk.

The contract offer from members of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) amounted to $100 million in concessions -- far short of what the airline said it needs to stay afloat.

"It appears to fall far short of the $176 million in annual cost savings that the company needs from its AMFA-represented employees," Northwest Airlines said in a statement to ANN.

In all, NWA is trying to chop $1.1 million in annual costs. AMFA represents about 5,400 Northwest mechanics -- many of whom would lose their jobs if the airline gets the concessions it wants.

Both sides were released from talks by the National Mediation Board almost a month ago. Neither side wanted to take the issue to arbitration. For the past year-and-a-half, Northwest has been lining up contract mechanics to take over if the union calls a strike. The airline promised no break in service if the AMFA does call a strike.

FMI: www.nwa.com, www.amfanatl.org