The article states these planes were not airworthy.

But these F22 were not fly able for whatever reason, mostly due to maintenance.

I agree with you but maybe we're missing some facts? I don't know if Delta lied to me but the excuse they gave me one time or flight was delayed was that some lights in the cabin were not working so they have to do electrical inspection. They eventually gave us all alternative flight on American (after having us wait until 4 PM with an initial departure if 9AM).

Point is, we don't know if the planes were in flight ready state, do we? It could be something simple but I'd not risk my officer's life just to save a plane.

My apologies if the planes were indeed flight certified.