The union Unite said it struck a pay deal for over 2,000 workers employed by Manchester Airport worth up to 17% over two years plus a lump sum worth up to 9.6% for the same period.

The union said the deal was negotiated without the need for a strike ballot.

Unite said it also successfully negotiated a further five years of protection for the workers who were in the Manchester Airport defined benefit pension scheme.

It said the deal covers workers including firefighters, security, engineering, airfield operations, traffic marshals and car parking.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s relentless focus on the workplace continues to put more money in workers’ pockets.

“The negotiations at Manchester Airport has also protected the defined benefit pension scheme for another five years.

“It’s more proof that Unite is delivering on its promise to fight for jobs, pay and conditions.”

Unite said workers on the National Minimum Wage (NMW) will also benefit from the deal.

The union negotiated a 4% increase to the employers’ pension contributions over two years, as well as increases in salary on top of the NMW.

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.”