Originally Posted by
OHDL1
What part of the CoC did Delta violate....specifically?
You misunderstand the difference between the contract and various other rules referred to in the contract.
The contract provides:
"Your reservation may be cancelled if you do not comply with all applicable check-in procedures by the check-in deadline for your flight, or if you not at the gate and ready for boarding by the applicable boarding deadline. The check-in and boarding deadlines in effect on the date of travel will apply and are posted on delta.com."
As the contract directs, the boarding deadline appears on delta.com:
"Additionally, you’re required to be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes before scheduled departure."
Lots of other provisions just like this in this contract and frankly, in many contracts.
However, it's all a red herring. DL violated the contract and the contract expressly limits damages to the value of the ticket. So, OP is entitled to a full refund to his original form of payment. But, that was never at issue.