But Delta executives said they had been led to believe there was nothing further they could do.

A Delta executive said on-line ticketing is far less expensive than traditional methods.

To be sure, the Delta executives could make a bundle if the carrier remains independent and emerges from bankruptcy.

Delta executives face pressure to present a plan that could justify something close to that higher value.

Delta executives are set to meet with pilots' union leaders today to discuss the airline's latest offer.

"They ran the company," he said of the Delta executives.

The image of running, however, appears to have stuck with some Delta executives.

Delta executives said they expect to add flights to Orlando, a market that had been dominated by Eastern.

Delta executives were skeptical that the company would ever earn back the $25 million cost of these 50-seat jets.

Delta executives say they have not abandoned Leadership 7.5 but are using it instead as a reminder to remain vigilant about costs.