MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Delta Air Lines Inc. is announcing plans to consolidate some operations now in Minneapolis to Atlanta, but will offer jobs to everyone in Minnesota who is willing to relocate.

In a letter to employees on Tuesday, CEO Richard Anderson says the moves will save money as fuel prices have risen sharply this year.

The company plans to move training centers for flight attendants and pilots in Minneapolis to Atlanta. The company also plans to move engineering and technical support teams from Minneapolis to Atlanta.

Anderson says that while the company no longer needs the buildings in Minneapolis, it does need the people who staffed them.

He says he expects the process to finish next year.

Delta is based in Atlanta. It bought Minnesota-based Northwest Airlines in 2008.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.

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