The threat of a strike by baggage handlers at leading airports across the UK has been averted after a pay deal was agreed during talks between unions and the company employing the workers.
A two-and-a-half-year pay deal worth 3.5 per cent this year and a similar amount next year was thrashed out between officials of three trade unions and ground services firm Aviance.
The unions will recommend acceptance of the deal among baggage handlers and check-in staff with the expectation that it will be agreed, ending the threat of travel chaos during the summer holidays.
The breakthrough came during day-long talks between the two sides at Gatwick airport following the union's rejection of a previous pay offer worth 2.5 per cent this year.
PA
