Airports strike called off

The planned strikes by BAA airport workers has been called off following extended talks with unions on Monday. The proposed walkout by staff at BAA airports would have ruined the holiday plans of families across the country – particularly during the busy August bank holiday weekend.

A statement from Acas confirmed that a settlement has been agreed between BAA and Unite, Prospect and PCS trade unions. Although the details have yet to be announced, further information is expected this afternoon. A spokesman from BAA said:

"We are pleased that the basis of an agreement has been reached on pay, that is fair to staff but which also reflects the difficult economic climate.

"Our priority is to work with our people to improve the service we provide passengers and airlines, and we look forward to doing that in the busy weeks ahead."

The news will be welcomed by many Britons hoping to make the most of the last few weeks of the school holidays and also come as a relief for much of the travel industry. A travelsupermarket spokesman said:

“Thankfully, both the BAA and Unite have been able to resolve this dispute knowing that there would be outrage amongst UK travellers if strike action had gone ahead."

BAA is the world’s leading airport company, owning and operating seven UK airports, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, London Stansted, Glasgow International, Edinburgh Airport, Aberdeen and Southampton.