We are flying NWA end of Jan. 2010. Will it still be NWA at that time and will Detroit Metro still have the planes in the same area? Also, will we be using NWA or Delta guidelines at that point for carry-on luggage? We plan on each having a small suitcase and adult canvas soft backpack each. Will this fit into the guidelines of one or both airlines rules. I think the backpacks would count as a purse type item. What do you think?
Delta is busy repainting Northwest aircraft and replacing Northwest signs and uniforms. If you're flying in January 2010, most traces of the Northwest brand will be gone.
Northwest's huge operation in the McNamara Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport is now Delta's huge operation in the McNamara Terminal.
Although it's already one airline in terms of being one company, Delta and Northwest still have separate operating certificates from the U.S. Government. So, until there is a single operating certificate, you could technically be flying Northwest, even if your aircraft is painted in Delta colors and the flight attendants are in Delta uniforms. Also, the Delta and Northwest computer systems are still being taught to talk to each other.
There's no real difference between Delta and Northwest carry-on rules. In short, the rules are one carry-on bag (not to exceed 45 total linear inches) and one personal item (such as a purse, briefcase, or computer bag, which should fit under seat in front of you). You can take a meal, a coat, and a medical device (such as a CPAP), in addition to the carry-on allowance.
If your "adult canvas soft backpack" is small enough to fit under the seat, then it should count as a personal item. If it's essentially a second carry-on bag, then it's likely you'll be asked to check one bag.
Delta Baggage Allowances:
http://www.delta.com/traveling_checkin/baggage/baggage_allowance/index.jsp
