1.   Delta pilots are hoping to surpass an industry-leading pact signed at United Airlines last summer.

2.   Delta pilots might not get an opportunity to strike even if the countdown is triggered.

3.   Delta pilots now have no contractual provision for on-duty meals, although the airline normally provides food for crews on international routes.

4.   Delta pilots want to better a contract signed this summer at United Airlines, which now leads the industry.

5.   Delta pilots planned on voting this week on whether to strike.

6.   Delta pilots recently filed a lawsuit to block the move, protesting that employees will lose jobs to ASA if this is done.

7.   Delta pilots expressed their frustration by working less overtime than normal during the busy pre-Christmas travel season.

8.   Delta pilots fear they drain mainline job growth.

9.   Delta pilots got raises in a new union contract inked last June.

10.   Delta pilots said they were concerned that a deal could limit their flight time and advancement opportunities.