pilotofjet
I agree there is no doubt Airbus have done an astounding deal. Everyone knew eJ had done a thorough assessment, and if they bought Boeing at that stage it would almost certainly have sent a message to other lo-cost airlines to stick with Boeing and not bother with the assessment!
However, I am convinced the Airbus is a good deal. The 737 is an old piece of kit (albeit dressed up with a glass cockpit). The Airbus gives a lot of advantages, including growth potential and commonality, in a 'handling-friendly' airframe, which I don't believe the 737 can offer.
This is not intended to start yet another Boeing v Airbus debate (the accountants don't care what the Pilots prefer!) but I genuinely do believe the Airbus is the better aircraft for eJ in the long term......as long as the introduction is properly managed!