Northwest officials talking to Gov. Pawlenty

Northwest Airlines officials say they are talking to Gov. Tim Pawlenty about jobs and service as merger talks between Delta and Northwest Airlines continue.

Last week, Gov. Tim Pawlenty and lawmakers expressed concern over how a merger might affect Minneapolis' hub status and area businesses that depend on the carrier's local presence. Senate President James Metzen pledged to subpoena Northwest officials to get answers if necessary.

Northwest spokesperson Tammy Lee said the airline is taking the Governor and lawmakers' concerns into account.

"We understand that his primary concerns are related to jobs and airline operations and the significant role that northwest airlines plays in Minnesota, so we appreciate the fact that the Governor reached out to us and we look forward to discussing his concerns with him soon," said Lee.

Northwest is not commenting on details of its discussions with the Governor or on the ongoing merger talks.

A spokesman for Gov. Pawlenty said a Senate hearing shouldn't hurt the state's efforts to keep Northwest.

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