Originally Posted by
lincolnjkc
Curious how/who you approached UA on these ... I've occasionally had UA try to talk me out of rebooking on AA but when I've politely requested it I've never had a problem -- though it happens just frequently enough to keep my AAdvantage miles from expiring. I've also been in the UC when people have requested rebooking under circumstances where I wouldn't expect it (e.g. weather) and I can't remember the last time there was a seat available and the agent said no. My most recent experience, earlier this year, was when UA canceled the return leg of a same-day turn before my first flight even departed. The auto rebooking on UA was unacceptable (non-stop went to 1-stop and F went to a mix of Y and F) as were other UA options -- I think either far too early in the day or next day. There was zero hesitation about rebooking me on AA from LGA (besides "are you really sure you want to fly American...you probably won't be able to get into the club at LGA?")
In each case I've told them that I needed to arrive at my destination before the next day and could they please put me on another carrier. In each case, I showed them prospective itineraries that would work and told them that I'd be willing to fly in Y even though I had purchased F. I was refused in all cases with varying reasons e.g. "United doesn't do that anymore.", etc. I don't try to push them or flaunt my status, so when they refuse, I politely tell them to issue a full refund, which they've had no problem doing. Believe me, I'm not happy about it. In the old days, they would move heaven and earth to take care of me-one time putting me on DL in business class for my flight to NRT. No more.