Bush Staves Off Mechanics Strike At United

President Bush has invoked his power to block a mechanics strike at United Airlines for 60 days by convening a Presidential Emergency Board. White House spokeman Ari Fleischer said the president is "concerned about the economy, particularly after Sept. 11" and the effect an airline strike would have on the economy, as well as on the public's ability to travel.

The PEB will develop settlement terms for a contract between United and the International Association of Machinists. The terms aren't mandatory and once the 60 days are up only Congress can block a walkout at the carrier.