NORTHWEST AIRLINES has introduced its first new aircraft paint scheme since 1989. The innovative design will be phased into the entire Northwest fleet ” a total of 436 aircraft ” during its regularly scheduled repainting planned over the next five years. A total of 27 new aircraft delivered in 2003 and up to 50 aircraft currently owned by the airline will be painted in the new livery by the end of this year. The paint scheme will save Northwest about 20% in future painting costs, based on several factors: fewer primary colours, simpler design and paint process, and greater durability. The airline says it made the decision to continue with the project during these difficult economic times because of the number of new jetliners being delivered this year, plus the need to repaint existing aircraft that are due for maintenance and repainting. Had Northwest delayed the new livery it would have forfeited any immediate cost savings. http://www.nwa.com