Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS - Leaders of the airlines mechanic union have authorized job actions by mechanics who work at other airlines in the event that their Northwest counterparts go on strike.

Officials with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association unanimously passed the resolution, which authorizes "whatever form of action necessary" to support its Northwest members in anticipation of a possible mechanics strike on Aug. 20.

Steve McFarlane, AMFA's assistant national director, said the resolution was intentionally left vague and that specific strategies wouldn't be revealed unless the strike happens.

He wouldn't comment on whether walkouts by mechanics at other airlines would be included. But it's less than clear that such an action would even be legal, and AMFA did note they would do "whatever is needed within the law."

The union's resolution comes just a day after Northwest Airlines announced in detail its plan for responding to a mechanics strike. Officials said 1,500 replacement workers and managers are ready to step in, and said some of the replacements would displace union mechanics permanently if the strike goes long enough.

McFarlane said that's enough reason for members of AMFA from other airlines to take action.

"We're prepared to do whatever it takes to make sure Northwest Airlines doesn't bust our unions," McFarlane said.

AMFA represents about 16,500 airline mechanics and related support personnel, with about 4,500 of them working for Northwest. It also represents workers at Alaska , ATA, Horizon, Independence, Mesaba, Southwest and United airlines.

Talks between Northwest, Michigan's largest passenger air carrier, and its mechanics are scheduled to resume Monday in Washington, D.C.