For the last month the SkyTeam Timetable has not listed any Northwest flights. This change was unexpected for us and premature, as Northwest is still flying. The current merger timetable is for Delta and Northwest to achieve Single Operating Certificate after operations conclude on 31 December, while reservations will not cut over until after 31 January. Below are answers to many of your questions about how to fly and file Northwest flights.
What is considered a Northwest flight vs. a Delta flight?
The operating airline is not the deciding factor because of 'crossfleeted' flights, under which a Northwest aircraft may fly a Delta route, and vice versa. While you should always fly the appropriate aircraft, the marketing airline, i.e., DL or NW code, determines what we consider a Delta or Northwest flight.
So, how do I go about searching for Northwest flights?
Our new recommendation is to use the Northwest/KLM Timetable program. This will list flights with Northwest flight numbers through 31 January. Note: we continue to recommend that you use the SkyTeam Timetable for KLM flights.
How do I go about flying Northwest flights?
While they should obviously be with the appropriate aircraft, the choice of flying in Delta or Northwest livery is up to you. As discussed in one of our original merger FAQs, you should continue to use the "Northwest" callsign through 31 December. However, if flying a Northwest aircraft in Delta livery, the FAA has asked for the callsign to include the phrase "Delta colors" after the flight number, e.g., "Northwest 714 Delta colors." Effective 1 January, if flying in Northwest livery, we recommend having your callsign read the reverse, e.g., "Delta 714 Northwest colors." However, this last point has not yet been confirmed.
How do I go about filing Northwest flights?
Northwest flights should continue to be filed through the Northwest PIREP page, and must be filed with the Northwest flight number, not the Delta flight number.
When will Northwest Virtual close?
Although Northwest Airlines will close on 31 December or 31 January, depending on your perspective, we will keep Northwest Virtual open through SimAirline.net's close on 30 April. However, the only flights remaining will be those discontinued routes listed in the SimAirline.net Timetable.
We also recommend you read this NOTAM on Delta/Northwest crossfleeting.
If you have other unanswered questions, please contact me and ask.
Thu, 10. December 2009
Northwest Flights in the Final Months
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