I've booked a flight LHR-Boston-LHR * and originally booked first class. Because of a change in equipment that eliminated First Class, I've been downgraded to Business... first on the outbound flight, then the return. In between those two events, I changed my return date. BA said they had to have the rate desk reprice the change to see what the fare difference would be (class of service differential refund on the outbound and current fare on the new date).

Before they got back to me, the return was downgraded to Business Class, so I'm now due a 400 pound or so refund* on the class differential but also may owe an unknown difference in fare for the new date if the current fare is more than I paid.

Except what they're now telling me is "they can't figure out the fare" and suggest I cancel, get a credit, then rebook. The major problem with that is the first flight (which I didn't voluntarily change) is now several thousand pounds more expensive!!

Because the explanation in the record was confusing even to the res supervisor, they've sent it back to the rate desk for more details. In the meantime, I've checked availability and current fares online, and it is only the outbound flight that has increased so much. The return flight (which I did change voluntarily before the downgrade) is the same fare as I paid.

When they call me back, can they insist I have to cancel/rebook just because they can't figure out the price? Might they be willing to call it a draw, if I don't insist on a refund for the downgrades? And is there any way that I can see the exact fare calculation (which would appear on a physical ticket as the fare ladder) so I can see what fare breakdown they're looking at?

*I've been told that I might be due a larger refund because of the involuntary downgrade. Anyone know if this is the case and what rules I'd cite when requesting it?

Thanks for any help!



*(I'm an American returning to the US so am allowed to travel and am planning my return to the UK for after the lockdown is lifted)