Delta is now saying they wont make a decision until May.
This deal will come down between Bombardier and Embraer.
On paper, given's Delta's unique requirements, this heavily favors Bombardier. But: 1) for whatever reason, Bombardier hasn't been able to close this deal; 2) once again the CSeries is competing in price against cheaper regional jets.
It doesn't even matter if Delta is stringing Embraer along only to get a better price from Bombardier. The CSeries entire financial model was based on not being priced in the same category as regional jets.
Bombardier should do whatever it takes win this contract. But since they are competing against the low-side of the market, that realistically means selling at an upfront loss.
I've said it before, failure here will hurt Bombardier's chances in this market for years.
I do however think that Delta is also negotiating with Embraer in good faith, not just stringing them along. And Embraer is also very hungry to win this deal. They are looking to steal one from Bombardier and Delta is willing to hear them out.
Yet at the end of the day, this is really a "must win" for Bombardier but not for Embraer. Embraer can afford to walk away from the deal, then turn around and court Delta Connection partners business. Bombardier has no such options for the CSeries. That may be the difference at the end.