Originally Posted by
3Cforme
Previous DOT communications indicated change of carrier was a reason for refund. It was never specified that a 'downgrade' from mainline to regional was required - but I haven't seen anything from the DOT on this in some time.
My understanding is that the DOT rule requires refunds if requested whenever the operating carrier is changed, but does not require rebooking. Thus, you can change by cancelling the first ticket totally and purchasing a new ticket, but this only works well if the same inventory classes and fares are still available and if any advance purchase requirements can still be satisfied.