Unite the union has said that it will be recommending an improved pay offer from airport operator BAA, following talks yesterday which saw the threat of strike action withdrawn.

Members of Unite had previously voted to strike after rejecting an offer of a 1.5 per cent pay rise, following a pay freeze last year.

BAA said it was now offering a rise of two per cent plus a bonus of at least £500 if the company meets its profit targets this year.

Unite is urging its members to accept the new offer in a ballot, the result of which should be announced in around three weeks.

BAA said in a statement, "We believe this is a fair offer for staff in what remains a difficult economic environment for the aviation industry.

"All parties brought a constructive approach to negotiations and we are sorry for the uncertainty ahead of yesterday's discussions."