The Unite union said the new deal put forward by contractor Menzies Aviation included a 9% pay increase and a lump sum of £750, as well as the pledge to make temporary staff permanent and upgrade communications technology.

“From the very outset of this dispute, Unite has been clear that Menzies could afford to make our members an improved offer and that has shown to be the case,” said Unite regional officer Sulinder Singh. 

This is the second time in less than a month that strike action at the airport has been cancelled after more than 150 security officers and terminal technicians called off a walkout in late July upon accepting a 13.25% pay increase.

Meanwhile, the threat of strike action continues to loom at Heathrow as 170 Unite members who manage baggage carousels have recently been balloted for industrial action over poor pay conditions. 

The union announced late last week the ballot will last until 1 September after workers rejected two offers – one for 5% and the other for 2.5% – made by contractor Vanderlande Industries.

"Vanderlande is treating its workers appallingly and Unite’s complete focus on the jobs, pay and conditions of its members will mean that our members at Heathrow will receive the union’s unflinching support," said Unite regional officer on Friday (11 August).

TTG has approached both Birmingham and Heathrow for comment.