Deal or no deal, Delta duo talk

As an update, Northwest chief exective Doug Steenland told the airline's people saying that it too placed a premium on job preservation:
Employee Update from Doug Steenland Regarding Possible Airline Consolidation
February 26, 2008
In previous employee communications, I have committed to keep you updated as we consider strategic alternatives related to airline consolidation. Needless to say, there has been a tremendous amount of speculation on potential airline mergers.We continue to believe that consolidation among the network carriers is inevitable. Given that, our Board of Directors and management team are prepared to consider positively a transaction that would provide greater long-term security and growth opportunities for our employees; create value for our shareholders; and benefit our customers and the communities we serve.
Through such a transaction, our goal would be to create the strongest possible foundation for the airline. We continue to consider strategic alternatives based on these criteria. We have many strengths: we have the best employees in the industry, we run a great airline, and we operate our airline with a commitment to doing what’s best for our employees and our customers.
As always, thank you for making Northwest Airlines the world-class airline we are today and continuing to position us for a successful future.

Doug