The threat of strike action at Gatwick was lifted last night as baggage handlers and check-in staff voted to accept a 4.2% pay offer .
Unions representing the 4,400 workers at airports, which also include Heathrow, Stansted and Luton, said the deal was the "leading" pay settlement in aviation.
The one-year deal covers workers employed by Aviance, who also provide maintenance, transport and other ground staff.
The Transport and General Workers Union, the GMB and Amicus said the company had recognised the value of paying workers a proper rate for their work.
Workers voted by 80% in favour of the rises.
GMB organiser Gary Smith said: "Things are difficult in the airline industry at the moment and in that context the settlement is significant.
"Our campaign against the low pay, long hours culture in the industry generally continues."
A spokesman for Aviance said: "We are delighted they have accepted the offer. It means we can move forward."
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