Workers at Manchester Airport are to enjoy a substantial pay rise, following a successful negotiation between union representatives and the airport’s management.

The pay deal for around 2000 workers employed by Manchester Airport is worth up to 17 per cent over two years plus a lump sum worth up to 9.6% for the same period. The deal was negotiated without the need for a strike ballot.

Pension benefits were also negotiated by reps from the Unite union.  The deal covers ground workers including firefighters, security, engineering, airfield operations, traffic marshals and car parking.

Unite regional officer John O’Neill said: “Unite was able to hammer out an excellent pay deal with Manchester Airport this summer. The deal has been overwhelmingly backed by the workers and the negotiations took place without the need for an industrial ballot.”

Workers on the National Minimum Wage will also benefit as the airport has agreed to a 4% increase to the employers’ pension contributions over two years, as well as increases in salary on top of the NMW.

Manchester Airport, previously called Ringway Airport, celebrates its 85 anniversary this month. Work has recently started on a £1.3bn programme to rebuild much of the infrastructure.