But if the pilots do strike, Mr. Clinton may be forced to act.

Not long before dusk, the pilot struck the alarm gong.

Some industry analysts were predicting that the pilots would not strike.

While American's other unions are opposed to the pilots' efforts, the company said would not operate if its 9,000 pilots struck.

When the pilots struck two years ago, President Clinton used his executive powers to order them back to work after only a few minutes.

The remaining pilots either never struck or have returned to work.

If the pilots had struck, they would have grounded the airline.

The pilot dove the plane, struck the ground and taxied close.

The pilots could still strike early next year if negotiations with the company again fall apart.

The pilots had struck over pay, retirement benefits and work rules, including how many hours a day they could be scheduled to work.