WorldPerks surfers may have noticed some changes at Northwest’s Web site — not the least of which is a decidedly sophisticated new look. In fact, Northwest launched a completely redesigned site six weeks ago, enhancing functionality to users.

Among the improvements: drop-down menus now also feature sideways menus, lessening the need for clicks; passengers can make seat selections prior to ticket purchase; a variety of information is available for download into hand-held devices; and WorldPerks members can get electronic updates on flight and gate status.

In the two weeks following the launch of the redesigned site, Northwest saw ticket sales increase a full 20 percent, though, according to the Detroit News, the re-launch coincided with a fare reduction, which makes drawing conclusions difficult.

About 15 percent of Northwest’s U.S. tickets are sold on its Web site, with 14 percent sold by discount third-party sites (Orbitz, Travelocity, etc.), 20 percent by Northwest’s call center and the rest by travel agents, the News said.