"Passengers who are uncomfortable can rearrange their accommodations on Northwest or other carriers."

But she did not consider canceling the trip, her first on Northwest.

A. I would bet on Northwest because it could become a takeover target.

"I wouldn't book a ticket on Northwest or Delta," she said.

Final trick: never schedule an important flight during the last few days of the month, especially on Northwest.

Certain reduced-fare tickets on Delta and Northwest are also not eligible.

"As a result, at least half of every group that works on Northwest is here" on summer Fridays, he said.

Miles now earned on Northwest and United also have three-year expiration dates, but you've still got some time.

On Northwest, the change must be made before the original flight's scheduled departure time.

Nintendo games, for example, cost travelers $4 an hour on Northwest.