INVOLUNTARY DOWNGRADE Archives

When Laura MacLennan's business class seat breaks, she's sent to economy class. An American Airlines agent promises a refund and $500 in compensation, but it never comes through. Can she recover the money -- or was this a case of a broken promise?

Help! American Airlines downgraded me and then refused a refund

December 10, 2025December 10, 2025 by Christopher Elliott

When Laura MacLennan’s business class seat breaks, she’s sent to economy class. An American Airlines agent promises a refund and $500 in compensation, but it never comes through. Can she recover the money — or was this a case of a broken promise?

Can ITA Airways keep the money for your upgrade bid but send you to economy class?

She bid $594 for an upgrade on ITA Airways but was seated in economy class. Now her money is gone.

April 2, 2025December 2, 2024 by Christopher Elliott

Can ITA Airways keep the money for your upgrade bid but send you to economy class?

American Airlines downgrades Thomas Sennett and his family to economy class on their flights from Boston to Phoenix. Why isn't it refunding the fare difference?

American Airlines downgraded us. Can I get the fare difference refunded?

June 11, 2025September 18, 2023 by Christopher Elliott

American Airlines downgrades Thomas Sennett and his family to economy class on their flights from Boston to Phoenix. Why isn’t it refunding the fare difference?

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