[j_lowder]

I am one of the latest victims of American Airlines.

I had booked a vacation from the East coast to Hawaii several months ago. I was informed a couple of days ago that the initial leg of my return flight had been cancelled. The alternative flights that American Airlines offered involved an extra layover (increasing from 1 to 2 stops) and an increase in travel time of 6-8 hours.

I felt that this unacceptable and requested some form of compensation. DENIED! I was informed the the airline (ONLY) reserves the right to make schedule changes as "they" seemed in THEIR best interest regardless of its effects on the traveler.

I next requested that only the "return leg" itinerary be cancelled and I would book with another carrier. This was stated possible only after they withhold what would be the "current" price of a oneway ticket for the outgoing flight. Now, much closer to the departure date, this oneway ticket cost exceeded the price of the prior round trip fare. So much for a refund.

If this seems fair, could someone please explain the reason(s) to me. Two reservation agents, two supervisors, and a manager were unable to convince me of fairness of this policy.

In the past I have tried to fly American Airlines if the route was available. I have now booked my LAST flight with American.