Northwest originates wind shear forecasts to warn of sudden changes in wind direction. Northwest becomes the nation's first all fan-jet operator. The Boeing 707-320 enters service with Northwest. Northwest receives the Flight Safety Foundation safety award for turbulence research. The Boeing 727 joins the Northwest fleet.
Service expands to Philadelphia.
Northwest wins approval to serve Hong Kong. Pacific Airlines is incorporated. North Central and Southern take delivery of their first DC9 jets. In the years to come, the sturdy DC9 will become the workhorse of Northwest's domestic fleet. Air West is incorporated, combining the previous operations of Pacific, Bonanza and West Coast airlines.