We're in agreement he was downgraded.

But unless he's got the documentation/screen shots showing what the price differential was between the room he originally booked and the regular room, he's going to have a difficult time getting $$ back (and that's further complicated by his LNF, which brings his higher level room to less than a regular level room in terms of rate). BTW - he notes in his post that the dif in rooms was $10, so if I were him I'd negotiate for points. He can try for $$, but I think it's going to be more complicated and he has a better chance of getting points put into his account.

I probably would have called the property as well to confirm I'd be arriving late & to make sure they kept the reserved room, but realize that's not always possible if one is on the plane during the delay.

And whether he gets points or $$, I would certainly talk to the GM about them giving away his confirmed room & express my displeasure. But I'm sure he's already done that.

Cheers.