As the pilots of both airlines apparently continue to try and come to terms on their seniority issues – the rest of us sit and wait. No news yet today on just when the Delta/Northwest merger may be announced.

In other rumblings however, one of our trusted moles sent us a communication this morning in which he outlined how a proposed United/Continental deal may come together. Remember, you heard it here first.

According to him, the bulk of the existing United Airlines brand will continue to be used internationally, but Continental will take over the domestic operation for the most part.

Other details we were told included the fact that there has already been a transition team put together. The deal will be announced after Delta/Northwest goes public.

There will initially be a holding company set up to run both airlines. This operation will continue for three-five years. This will allow for a “smoother transition” from the two airlines into one operation.

And, in another piece of related United Airlines news, we are being told that because of continued problems with Mesa Air Group cancellations, that United has turned to ExpressJet, and that ExpressJet is going to be adding regional service on behalf of United –beginning no later than the middle of March.

Indications are that ExpressJet will start flying at least three aircraft for United at that time, with the possibility that more aircraft could be added fairly quickly, “as needed.”

Did United contact any of its other regional feeders about providing service before turning to ExpressJet? Apparently. But from what we hear there were no takers.

Tickers: (Nasdaq:MESA); (NYSE:XJT); (NYSE:CAL); (Nasdaq: UAUA); (NYSE:DAL); (NYSE: NWA)