US carrier Delta – which is set to become the world’s biggest airline by traffic when the Northwest deal is completed – has reported a net loss of US$50 million for this year’s third quarter, compared to a profit of $220 million in the same period last year.

The latest quarter results included special charges totalling US$24 million, comprising a US$14 million charge for early termination fees under contract carrier arrangements, US$7 million in merger-related expenses, and a US$3 million net charge primarily for facilities restructuring and severance.