Delta Air Lines today will notify the U.S. Department of Transportation of its plans to adjust flying in 24 small markets. In concert with the retirement of Delta's Saab fleet and to halt$14 millionin annual losses, the changes will affect Essential Air Service markets.

Flights in these markets on average depart with 52 percent of the seats filled, with some locations as low as 12 percent. This compares to a domestic system load factor of 83 percent for 2010. Weak demand in some markets has led to flights occasionally operated with no passengers on board.

"While Delta would prefer to continue serving these communities, the new reality of mounting cost pressures faced by our industry means we can no longer afford to provide this service. As we continue to strengthen our business, Delta is retiring the Saab turboprops and some 50-seat jet aircraft, which will hinder the financial viability of serving these smaller markets," Delta said.