Applied a SWU for my sister HNL-LAX-ORD-LHR confirmed way before departure (probably a couple of months out). Checked in at HNL with all 3 boarding passes in hand, including 6A on ORDLHR on the retro fit 763.

All good up until ORD when at gate, she is swapped out of pre-assigned 6A (with boarding pass in hand) for 7D for an EXP who apparently really wanted 6A. At that point EXP already boarded and gate agent said they could do nothing as my sister wasn't EXP.

Was told there was 'reduced seats' due to a/c swap but I knew it was BS because it had always been a 763 retrofit and I picked 6A ages ago because it was a nice single seat by the window.

Gate agent refused to speak to me on the phone (I wasn't travelling with her), said there was an EXP who wanted that seat and generally being vague.

She had to fly so in the end took 7D. Not the end of the world but its the principle of being told that because she wasn't EXP, she had to give up her confirmed seat for someone else.

Anyone heard this before? I'm an EXP myself so I suppose its never happened to me but first time I've ever heard of such treatment from AA to pax with confirmed seats (ie I would never request for the mini-cabin on the 77W if I knew the seat was already taken by someone else, just as an example).

Just trying to collect my thoughts now so pardon the rather heated tone but poor form on AA's part!!