Delta begins removal of large Northwest sign along I-494

Delta Air Lines is continuing to erase signs of Northwest Airlines around the Twin Cities.

Monday, Delta began removing the huge Northwest sign that's long adorned the aircraft hangar alongside I-494. The sign spelled out the Northwest name in red illuminated letters about ten feet high.

Delta spokesman Paul Skrbec said the sign's removal and replacement is a major event in Delta's absorption of Northwest.

"We're replacing the lettering on the building 'C' hangar, which is probably one of the more visible buildings for Northwest," Skrbec said. "And replacing it with Delta lettering and the logo. Weather permitting that will happen in the next week or two."

Skrbec said Delta has not determined what it will do with the Northwest sign. But he expects there may be some interest in preserving the sign for its historic value.