dhuey

I once had an extreme version of this problem with a United agent. During a nasty rainstorm that stretched from the Bay Area all the way to L.A., nearly all SFO-LAX flights were cancelled for almost an entire day. When I called in to request a refund, I mentioned to the agent that I completely understand the need to cancel all the flights -- no one can fly in these conditions.

I then asked that my credit card be refunded for the cancelled flights. The agent said that he was sorry to say that this is not possible -- I bought a nonrefundable ticket. I said, yes, I understand that, but you have cancelled the flight, and every other SFO-LAX flight for the rest of the day. He wouldn't budge: nonrefundable means no refund under any circumstances.

Thank you, sir. I called back, got a new agent, and the problem was solved.