September 2, 1998
A message to the customers of Northwest Airlines

As you have probably heard, federal mediators declared an impasse in the contract negotiations with the Northwest pilots' union negotiators. This action triggered a 30 day "cooling off" period, which runs through August 29, 1998.

We believe we have an obligation to keep you as fully informed as possible throughout this process, and to that end you will find enclosed a Q and A that addresses many of the questions you may have. Additionally, you can find further information on our Web site at www.nwa.com which will be a good source for timely information and updates during this period.

We regret very much that our negotiations have not yet produced an agreement, and we are disappointed that the pilots' negotiators rejected the federal mediator's proffer of binding arbitration. We remain willing to submit all the open issues to binding arbitration as a way to avoid the risk of a strike. At the same time, we believe that a negotiated settlement remains possible and we will do our utmost to achieve such a settlement. There is no reason why the two parties, negotiating in good faith, cannot reach agreement in the next 30 days.

You should know that there can be no strike during the 30 day cooling off period, during which we will continue to seek a resolution. Northwest Airlines intends to fly our schedule throughout this period, and we will work hard to provide you with the best service possible.

On behalf of the 50,000 men and women of Northwest, thank you for your continued support and for your understanding during this period. Be assured that we will work diligently to bring these negotiations to a fair resolution that serves the best interests of our customers, our people and the communities we serve.

What does the recent impasse in the Northwest Airlines pilots' negotiations mean to you?

Does the announcement of an impasse mean the pilots will definitely strike?
No. Northwest is committed to reaching an agreement with the pilots' union without the pain of a strike. We believe that a negotiated settlement remains possible and we will do our utmost to achieve such a settlement. There is no reason why the two parties, negotiating in good faith, cannot reach agreement in the next 30 days.

This announcement by the National Mediation Board (NMB) is a step in the process dictated by the Railway Labor Act, the federal law that governs labor relations in the airline industry. The NMB's formal declaration that negotiations are at an impasse triggers a 30-day "cooling off" period. During this time there can be no strike by the pilots and negotiations can continue. (press release continued)