Is it that hard to understand? Former management had a plan, part of which was a fleet of 35 E175s. Unfortunately as the business climate changed it became apparent that the plan was not profitable. New management came in with a new plan, that didn't require as many E175s, but more Dash 8s, so have come up with a deal with Republic that addresses the issue. Given that reports suggest that the new plan is more profitable, what's not to like (unless you were expecting to transition from props to jets as the Embraer fleet expanded)?
Can't even cope with 11 for another 4 years? Fantastic.
- CEO quote states that they are happy with the 11 they have, so presumably they expect that fleet to stay in situ for a while.
I would guess that Republic have covered at least some of the Embraer cancellation costs in return for 20 production slots being freed up, and Flybe get to replace some older Dash 8s for less than it would cost to lease some new ones.