Virgin Australia Darwin to Perth on Christmas Day flight change

I had booked $500 business class seats on VA for a family of 3 to fly from Darwin to Perth on Christmas Day. $500 for a business class seat on a near 4 hours flight and the possibility of being bumped up to Gold status due to the potential status credits and not to mention all the points I would have got through family pooling had me really excited. But unfortunately VA changed their plane from B737 to A320, which doesn't have business class and downgraded me to economy! Dont think I will even meet the required status credits for Silver. Does it happen often?

They have just taken on another 2 A320s to offload more 737 flying from out West, back to the East.

737s are cycling in/out Perth less due McGowan border stance.

VA are replacing 737 flying in PER with A320s as VARA have a lower cost base. Same as QF have done.

I doubt there would be much demand on Xmas day. Surprised there is a even a flight scheduled.

I have taken a flight on Xmas day to or from Perth more often than not in the last 15 years and they are generally full

This happened to me for next month. They will route you via Adelaide. B737 Perth to Adelaide then B737 to Darwin ( no charge).

Or of course they will offer free cancellation back to original form of payment or give alternatives.

As with any airlines when it comes to schedule changes ... Call them