MarcusBWI

Hi folks,

Quick question for everybody here.

I'm currently booked on LAX - PHX - DCA, with a 45 minute layover in PHX. Booked with a Q fare on both legs.

Today I checked my itinerary online, and the website mentioned that they changed the second leg, so I only have a 40 minute layover now.

The departure from LAX is earlier than I would like, and there are other flights that I would much prefer (later departure, and layover in CLT instead of PHX).

How likely is it that, if I called in, I could get my flight changed to the later departure, with the excuse that the shorter layover doesn't work for me anymore? Does US honor those requests at all? Would I have to find another flight with Q booking code (of which there are basically none)?

When I look at my reservation on the website, it mentions the changes, with a button saying "I don't accept these changes" (requiring me to call in). Does that matter at all?

Thanks very much for the help!

MSPeconomist

Don't accidentally accept the changes on line. You'll be able to rebook at most once, provided that you haven't accepted the changes first.

Is your connection now under the official UA MCT at PHX for D-D?

MCOGUY

The agent should change it for you due to the shorter connection time. On another note, if you ever get a message like that to accept the changes and you don't accept them (or call to get them changed) the auto-upgrade system doesn't work for your reservation. I found that out on a holiday trip I had booked weeks out, and the agent explained that when I called to find out why I hadn't received an upgrade email.

MarcusBWI

Thanks. I don't think I'm under the minimum connection time (was 45 minutes, now 40 minutes).

When I'm rebooking, will I have to pay the difference in fare, or will they let me fly on my originally purchased price?

Thanks again!

GNRMatt

You should be able to get the flight changed to a better one (as long as it is the same day with the same origin and destination). Alternatively, you should be able to ask for a refund if that connection doesn't work for you anymore either.

For the comment about accepting the changes with regards to upgrades, I have not clicked "accept changes" before and still had my upgrades go through with no issue (on US at least).

Often1

US has no obligation to provide a fee-free change, but you may ask. The new connection is still within the D-D MCT for PHX.

I would simply call and say that you are nervous about the connection and would appreciate a courtesy change. About 80% of the time, you will get it. If US says no, thank the agent, end the call and call back. Sometimes the agent will note your PNR as to the request and decision, most of the time they won't bother.

MarcusBWI

Thanks! And final question: I'm currently booked on US metal--if I am successful in getting them to change my flight, do I have to stay on US, or can I switch to AA?

JPG3392

You don't have a right to switch to AA, but under circumstances like these US (and other airlines) will often allow you to make changes that they are not required to permit. You should prepare in advance by knowing what AA flight you want, and ask politely. AA's agreement may also be required.