Hi there. In this post I'm passing on some information, as well as asking a question.

I am travelling to Orlando from Manchester on 7th July to watch the Space Shuttle Launch from Kennedy Space Centre. I'm taking time off work and can only afford a few days - coming back on 11th.

I can't disclose my source, although it looks as though the Pilots Strike will be on 11th July if they can't manage to sort it out beforehand. This means I'll be stuck in Florida. To be honest it's not the worst place in the world to be stuck, but I really need to be back in the UK by Tuesday 12th at the very latest - I'm in big trouble if not.

At the moment, Virgin are still giving the corporate message - in that they don't know when, or if, the strikes will be.

If I'm delayed getting out there, the trip is pointless - if I miss the shuttle launch (on 8th July) I might as well not go. But if the strike stops me from getting back I'm in big trouble!

So - my question is - if I get to Florida, and then find out there's a strike, what do I do? I have travel insurance, obviously, but is it up to Virgin to get me home, or should I book another flight and claim on the insurance for the cost? Virgin might say they can get me back 24 hours later and give me a hotel - but that doesn't really help me! Or am I within my rights to get any flight (at any cost) and claim it back.

I've had a good scout around and there are plenty of flights with other carriers but with a few stops. I had booked Premium economy as it's an overnight flight and I need to work the following day (I'm a teacher) but I'm not sure if my credit card would run to a business class ticket with another airline, and I'm not sure whether Virgin would take care of that?

Any advice would be gratefully received!

Many thanks

Tim