Southwest cancels more than 400 flights amid fight with mechanics

Southwest Airlines cancelled 440 flights across the Midwest, Ohio Valley and the Northeast Wednesday and saw many planes delayed amid an ongoing contract dispute with its mechanics union. An airline spokesperson said it canceled more than 350 flights in preparation for inclement weather. But it acknowledged that some of its fleet is out of service due to mechanical issues. The disruptions come as the carrier spars with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association over a new agreement. Another 471 Southwest flights have been delayed. COO Mike Van de Ven had strong words for the mechanics union saying, "AMFA has a history of work disruptions...We will be investigating this current disruption and exploring all possible remedies." <br/>