The union representing Delta Air Lines pilots said Tuesday that 95 percent of the pilots voted in favor of a strike against the airline, if necessary. No date was set for a walkout. Aviation analysts believe that Delta, now operating in bankruptcy protection and with hefty debt and operating capital needs, could be forced to shut down permanently if such a strike would occur, even for just a short time. However, those same experts generally say a strike is unlikely and the strike vote is simply posturing as the airline and the union continue another round of wage concessions. An arbitration panel is currently evaluating whether Delta should be authorized to jettison its current pilots union contract. A decision from that panel is expected by April 15. In the meantime, both side continue to work for leverage on concessions. Delta is the nation's second largest airline.
