The threat of a strike by baggage handlers at leading airports across the UK was averted last night.

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.

Brendan Gold, national officer of the Transport and General Workers Union, said: "I am pleased that the company has recognised the contribution of its workers.

"We will be recommending this deal which will avert strike action."

Allan Black, national officer of the GMB, said he was confident that the deal would be accepted by workers.

"It is the best offer that can be achieved through negotiations," he said.

"A strike was the last thing we wanted so this has been a good day for the unions, a good day for the company and good day for passengers."

Aviance, which is owned by the Go-Ahead group, has baggage handling, check-in and other operations at 17 airports including Gatwick, Heathrow, Glasgow, Manchester, Stansted and Teesside.