The pilots restated their position that they were waiting for Northwest to return to the negotiating table.

The Captain had worked for Northwest for almost nine years.

That relative financial strength has made it hard for Northwest to argue its case for union concessions.

A spokesman for Northwest said he could not comment on trial motions because they were sealed by the judge.

Detroit is a hub for Northwest, which has more than 70 percent of flights here.

All that sounds good, and may be more than enough for Northwest to carry off its offering.

For Northwest, the strike began on an advantageous day.

This strike comes at a difficult time for Northwest.

A spokesman for Northwest declined to comment on the reports.

"I've found an empty brou truck that's leaving for Northwest in half an hour."