I don't want to throw a curve into the post...but I do have a question for possible discussion.

Does Aeroplan status enter into the equation?

In such events, does AC step up to the customer service plate in the same manner for an Elite and a Basic Aeroplan member?

The op is Elite. If he were Basic would the response have been the same?

Note: I am "dissing" AC but only asking a question that has often lingered in my mind when I read of these excellent customer service responses