Northwest Flies On Despite Strike, Union Cites Differing Statistics

Avoiding mass disruption that has marred previous work stoppages at its company, Northwest Airlines enters the fourth day of a strike by the airline's mechanic's union still flying and still seemingly without widespread system problems.

A statement issued by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, the union striking Northwest, claimed that the airline's on-timer performance this year has been 78%, but that the number of on-time flights has dipped to 50% during the strike. Still, a tour of the carrier's Memphis hub on Monday and media reports from its other two hubs in Detroit and Minneapolis seem to contradict the number.

"There could be a sampling issue," said Consumer Help Web President Joan Bounacos. "Although the study reported that 99 flights were surveyed at random, a system-wide number was generated. Just a few outliers could skew that number." Bounacos also noted that whether the number was 50% or 78% that the airline seemed to be maintaining operations despite the worker action.

"It's always a good idea to check your flight's status before leaving for the airport," Bounacos said. "This action just makes it critical for Northwest travelers.

Although the airline has refused to comment on flight delays or statistics, the company has urged travelers to check on their flights by visiting the airline's web site at nwa.com or by calling the airline's toll-free flight information line at (800) 441-1818.

posted by Consumer Help Web Editorial Team at 8:41 AM |