These situations are the proverbial tough call. I think that people who are downgraded are primarily due a thorough explanation. I wouldn't accept the "equip change and you lose" mentality. I would ask how it was determined that I lost -unlikely that they will show you the manifest, have the record documented that I was involuntarily downgraded, and proceed from there. I don't believe that anything is "owed" but a positive space upgrade and 2 drink chits should be a NO Brainer and a win - win.