I had a better experience...

When my flight was changed from a 380 to a 777 I was called by EK informing me of the change. I asked whether I can change to another flight (with a 380 scheduled) and she said yes. I asked whether she could do it and she started checking (her terminal?) and subsequently offered me another date. I said that would do and my booking was altered there and then. No change fee charged!

I was happy they took the trouble to inform me and further to solve the problem.