I believe this to be correct, at least for two years, assuming performance metrics are met. And AFAIK, they have been met.

I don't think US Airways/AA can easily replace the lift that AWAC provides without reducing frequency and possibly bringing some of the flying back in-house. This doesn't only apply to AWAC. It would, of course apply to all contract carriers. They're no longer as expendable as they were 5 or 6 years ago. There will be some casualties. We've seen that with Comair, but I don't think they can do that indefinitely.

This will slowly become an industry-wide issue.

AWAC is staffing OK now but it's uncertain how long that will remain the case. There are still more pilots retiring across the industry than the FAA is issuing new certificates.