Altitude has nothing to do with what they can do but how they deal with customers. Competency is about how well they understand process, procedures and options for customers.
In my case, their advice was they will eventually get me to Doha and delays happen all the time (which I agree) but my missed connection is my problem and asked me to sort it our myself when I get to Doha. Also, any accommodation required for missing my connection is my own problem and at my own costs.
It was AA and I was at JFK. I was dealing with reservations, customer service, the whole crew.
I am sure if "A" happens, the SOP is not sending customers to a hotel with no room.
