On the critical issues, the parties feel that they are far enough apart that it would be beneficial to bring in a mediator to provide a fresh perspective.

We still feel like we're far apart on key issues, namely the two-tier system on wages and benefits, and wage parity with the rest of the industry.

I don?t know who they have in mind to bring in, but I think it would be beneficial if it was someone who interacted more with the players,

But those are not the only issues. Those are just the issues that we think are critical. If we can't solve those we won't get to the other ones.

But we're also far enough apart, ... that we could end up in the ditch tonight.

These are very, very difficult issues. I've heard about a lot of tensions between the parties. There are tensions every day when you're working through these issues.