Northwest Airlines reached a tentative agreement with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association

that, if ratified, would end a prolonged workers strike and provide the bankrupt carrier with $203 million in annual labor cost cuts. In Aug. 2005, thousands of mechanics, cleaners and custodians walked off the job after contract negotiations failed but Northwest managed to maintain nearly regular operations by using replacement workers and activating other contingency plans. The airline has reached deals with most other unionized employee groups, excluding the Association of Flight Attendants, which continues to negotiate with management.