Pilots at Aloha Airlines yesterday said they are closer to settling the labor dispute over the company's cargo division, adding that they will support Aloha's efforts find a buyer for the profitable unit.

Aloha, which closed its passenger operations on Monday after 61 years, sought an injunction against the Air Line Pilots Association on Tuesday, alleging that they were attempting to "disrupt or stop its cargo operations," which were unaffected by the shutdown.

The legal action was filed as a result of a disagreement between management and the pilots over who should be flying the cargo planes.

The ALPA, which denied that it was attempting a work stoppage, said its collective bargaining agreement calls for its most senior pilots to get first choice on routes. Pilots who fly the cargo routes are not being laid off.

"While the picture is grim, we're not going to stop trying to help the Islands and our company," said David Bird, chairman of Aloha's master executive council. "We will never give up the Aloha spirit." A company spokesman declined comment.

Pilots said they agreed to a number of changes to keep the cargo operations flying. Those include less furlough pay and more flexible rules for retraining pilots for the cargo operations.

In return, they are asking for the company's help in continuing medical coverage for 30 days and reduced-rate travel to help workers search for new jobs.