Originally Posted by JT_BOS

I had that happened to me once while flying TUS->LAX->BOS. I used a CR-1, but was only able to confirm TUS->LAX. When I realized the LAX-> BOS leg was not going to clear. I called 1K desk and asked for a downgrade, but was told downgrade was not possible because of the 0 fare bucket.

At TUS, I simply asked the gate agent again for a downgrade. He punched a few things, and out came a economy class boarding pass, and the CR-1 was returned.

So, I think it is still possible. If they can do OP-UP, surely they can do OP-DOWN, as long as there are seats, regardless of the fare buckets.