MINNEAPOLIS/ROME—(August 9, 2001) - Northwest Airlines and Alitalia today announced that the two airlines have reached a mutual agreement to phase out their marketing relationship effective October 28, 2001, the start of the winter schedule period. Cooperative activities have included code-share service and reciprocal frequent flyer and airport lounge programs.

The carriers already are taking steps to proactively contact and confirm flight reservations or to re-protect customers holding reservations on Northwest-Alitalia code-share flights on or after October 28. Northwest and Alitalia code-share on U.S.-Italy flights and flights within the United States and Europe.

Customers holding reservations and tickets on Alitalia flights numbered 612, 613 and 3500-3611 and Northwest flights numbered 8700-8849 will be offered alternative travel arrangements. The two airlines have already begun to proactively contact these customers to confirm their reservations, and where necessary, arrange for the most convenient alternative flights available.

——-