The answer was that Kirby said that early in the year and perhaps changed his mind, thus explaining the 6 year deal. The proof will be if they spend any money upgrading the interiors, adding entertainment, etc. If all they do is duck tape HEPA filters on the recirc fan inlets then it’s a good bet the airplane is just being used as a stopgap.
Working for a company that is entirely dependent on a larger partner is always going to involve some risk. C5 was a ‘get your time and go’ airline. Except now there is nowhere to go.