TRAVEL TROUBLE AIRLINES REPORT BIG QUARTERLY LOSSES.(Business)

Byline: Associated Press

Two of the nation's largest airline companies, UAL Corp. and Delta Air Lines, announced large first-quarter losses Thursday, reflecting the sharp slide in air travel brought on by the Mideast war and the recession.

UAL, Chicago-based parent of United Airlines, said it lost $157 million in the first three months of the year, mainly because fewer people flew after the war with Iraq broke out in January.

Delta, based in Atlanta, said it lost $84.1 million in the quarter ended March 31, as traffic growth was offset by fare discounts and increased operating expenses.

Such losses were "pretty much expected," said Thomas …