Originally Posted by
Often1
This works if OP is on a OW ticket. If on a RT ticket, the entire ticket is cancelled and refunded, but he is stuck at ATL. He then drives to his aunt's and has no ticket home.
This is an IAH-TYS with a connection, not a stopover at ATL. Getting OP part of the way is meaningless if the trip is in vain.
Since OP didn't mention RT I assumed OW. However if it's RT (meaning one ticket, not two separate tickets) they should still be willing to refund the award for HOU-TYS. however yes it'll be trickier. I have a feeling if RT they still would refund the award for HOU-TYS. Otherwise an award HOU-ATL is technically the same amount. Plus DL is generally good at refunding tickets when there's an issue.