The Unite union said the offer also included a lump sum worth up to 9.6%, and a further five years’ protection for workers in the airport’s defined benefit pension scheme.

Unite said the deal had been struck without a strike ballot. It applies to firefighters, security personnel, engineering and airfield operations, traffic marshals and car parking attendants.

In addition, Unite said it had negotiated a 4% increase in employer pension contributions over the next two years, as well as increases in salary on top of the National Minimum Wage.

Sharon Graham, Unite general secretary, 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."

John O’Neill, Unite regional officer, added: "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."