I had a segment booked in November for a direct flight from HKG to JFK at 6:30pm using AA miles for 2 people. The flight was initially booked as F, but I had to change the date a few months ago so I took a voluntary downgrade to Business.

I got an email this morning saying my itinerary changed to the 1:00 AM departure (6 hrs later) which is a connecting flight through Vancouver. Of course, this just sucks. I do not want to connect anywhere, I just wanted the direct flight.

Taking a look at alternative award availability on other flights that day, there is only 1 F seat available on another direct flight that day and no Business. Now this sucks more.

Is there anything I can do to get on the same day direct flight?