I just booked this weekend a flight from EWR-MSP-YEG, and today I noticed a schedule change of 45 minutes later departure time from EWR-MSP.

I have now gone from 1hr30 connection time to 38 minute connection time in MSP which I'm less than thrilled about. In particular, NYC area airports seem to have heavy delays frequently, and this is connecting onto the last flight of the night from MSP-YEG (there are only 2 flights a day).

Second, DL clearly states that if you are not in the boarding area 30 minutes prior to departure your seat can be released and you will be treated as a no-show. That leaves 8 minutes from arrival time to have the jetbridge connected, disembark, and race over the next flight - hardly enough time IMO.

Yet thus far Delta has said I'd have to pay over $500 to reschedule onto a longer connection time.

Any advice on this? Does sending a TTU in advance of travel help? Does Delta even offer a TTU type thing (I can only see 'email us')

Thanks

EDIT TO ADD: Delta tells me I need to be at the boarding gate at least 45 minutes prior to departure which is obviously impossible.

"You should arrive at the boarding gate at least 15 minutes before your departure time for a domestic flight and 45 minutes if you are traveling on an international flight (including Canada, St Thomas and St Croix) Customers who fail to complete the check-in procedures or be at the boarding gate by these deadlines may not be able to travel on desired flights and change fees may apply."