pilots said last night he was hopeful that an agreement could be worked out that would avert a strike at midnight tonight.

"I am hopeful,'' said Kenneth Hipp, chairman of the National Mediation Board.

At press time last night Hipp, speaking to reporters at a hotel where talks have been taking place, said he anticipated that the two sides in the dispute would meet face-to-face, and that negotiations could go on throughout the night if necessary, Reuters reported.

In Bermuda, American Airlines general manager Carol Decouto said mechanical problems forced the delay of one jet on the tarmac yesterday morning.

And engineers were awaiting a part to be flown in from Dallas, Texas.

Consequently, there was a delay for many passengers but the majority were able to get out on other flights.

Mrs. Decouto said American Airlines would fly as normal today.

Meanwhile Postmaster general Cleveland Crichlow said other arrangements had been made to send mail from Bermuda on other airlines in the event the strike does take place.

UNIONS UNS GOVERNMENT GVT