I have a few friends that are crew..... they are fed up with the status quo and WILL strike unless things improve. Don't forget that half-term school holidays in the U.K. are mid Feb, the dates you wish to travel.... maximum disruption? I am not a genius.....but that would be my guess of strike dates. Why not book the B.A. reward flights in FIRST, and pay for back-up (refundable) tickets in Premium Econ. on Virgin???