Pilots give conceptual OK to merger

NEW YORK, Feb. 18 (UPI) -- The Air Lines Pilots Association has given Delta and Northwest Airlines the green light to continue with merger discussions, it was reported Monday.

The critical step means the pilots' union has given a conceptual nod of approval to the portion of the merger plan that blends each company's rules regarding pilot seniority, pay, rank and what size aircraft pilots will be allowed to fly, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported.

The boards of directors from Delta and Northwest Airlines could decide as early as Wednesday whether or not they will create the world's largest airline, the report said.

Delta Chief Executive Officer Richard Anderson has said any joining of the two companies would involve "seniority protection."

Delta's board is scheduled to meet in New York Wednesday and Northwest is also considering gathering its board together the same day, a source said.