Delta, Cheap Tickets Set Marketing Alliance

Delta Air Lines Inc. agreed to post more fares and routes through Cheap Tickets Inc. in exchange for an equity warrant in the Internet seller of discounted travel. Financial terms of the five-year agreement and the warrant weren’t disclosed.

The companies jointly will sell and distribute tickets for Delta through the Cheap Tickets Web site, call centers and stores. Honolulu-based Cheap Tickets has been negotiating with several airlines to expand the range of travel options it offers.

Separately, Redmond, Wash.-based Microsoft Corp. said it will team with UAL Corp.’s United Airlines to sell MSN Internet access to United Airlines customers. Microsoft will advertise on in-flight videos and magazines. Information on MSN Internet access will be mailed to United’s 40 million frequent fliers, and the airline will buy advertising on Microsoft’s MSN network of Web sites. Terms weren’t disclosed.

Atlanta-based Delta closed off 30 cents at $44.91, while Elk Grove Township, Ill.-based UAL closed off 8 cents at $36.35, both on the NYSE. On Nasdaq, Cheap Tickets closed up 22 cents at $12.66, and Microsoft closed off 45 cents at $68.27.