Originally Posted by
Wainwright
I asked them for compensation proportional to the amount of the conference that was missed, or ~$300. I didn't think that was particularly out of line given the ticket cost was over $2200
NO airline is ever going to consider consequential damages of arriving late as something they owe you.
There was a humorous thread here years ago from a lady who claimed she lost out on a multi-million dollar business deal due to a 12 hour delay. If airlines ever accepted this, it would destroy them.
See above. Part of what bothers me about this is that in this scenario, changing my plans is worth $800 to DL if it suits them, $450 if it suits me, and $0 when it's DLs fault.
The lack of symmetry exists, and does so in many cases. If I buy a ticket to a baseball game and can not make it, I lose. But if they can not play the game there is no penalty on them.
Anyway, back to your question. Delta owes you zip, but may well back their "sorry" with some sky miles or such. But keep on point with nothing more than MX delay cause 8 hour arrival delay.
BTW: In post 1 you mentioned you were delayed waiting on a gate when there were empty gates. Alas, unlike us Americans, not all gates are created equal.
EDIT: To Zorak, I somewhat agree with your point. But want to make clear that several replies (mine included) are not meant to be "harsh", but just to address reality and suggest a path forward.