Gloopy,

Yes DAL would have to assume the payments, but using the ACA agreement as you template is way off. All of these agreements have been modified, some require more cash up front if terminated, and some require less. SKW's CPA for example would cost DAL a ton of money, but the RJET or GoJet/CPS CPA's are more "at risk" type of flying.

DAL has reduced the guaranteed margins on many of them but some of that does still exist, and whether or not DAL is on the hook is part of the non disclosed sections of the agreement. I agree with sunset provisions, and like the idea that is they sign a long term deal they should eat that cost just for doing it.