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Schedule changes happen -- especially on flights booked well in advance. NW now has you leaving DTW earlier and arriving later, let alone the 1-stop arrangement. To add insult to injury, you will likely be enjoying a CRJ flight as well.

It has been my experience that NW is willing to change to another flight that will suit your needs. If you booked this online, you should be able to investigate change options at NWA.COM. When you have selected the flights you would prefer, it will 're-price' the itinerary, and you should get a message that states 'no change in fees due to schedule change' or something like that. If you get advice of a fee, you can cancel out of it without being charged.

If that does not work, call the 800 number and talk to an agent. Explain that you have a timing problem with the new flight schedule, booked a direct flight and will not accept a re-route connection, etc.