WASHINGTON, March 18 (Reuters) - The Justice Department

on Tuesday said it is in talks with Southwest Airlines ( LUV )

about potentially resolving a suit filed by the Biden

administration accusing the carrier of illegally operating

chronically delayed flights.

The U.S. Transportation Department in January said Southwest ( LUV )

had operated unrealistic schedules, and said it was seeking

maximum civil penalties.

The Justice Department said on Tuesday it is engaged in

discussions with Southwest ( LUV ) "about a potential resolution of this

action."