What a difference a year makes.

Basking in its successful bankruptcy exit and recent profitability, Delta is poised to go shopping. At least that's the buzz in financial circles.  And while the carrier just teamed up with Air France to create a transatlantic powerhouse through a joint agreement to share revenue and costs, financial analysts think there's more to come in the world of airline consoldation. And in that world, Delta seems to be sitting pretty.

Business Week takes a look at:  Why Delta Should Buy Northwest

"With a new CEO and a clean balance sheet, Delta is pondering expansion. Here's why Northwest is the logical choice."