T-Mobile has announced that its Wi-Fi hotspots will be available at Heathrow's Terminal 5, claiming that this will give passengers fast and reliable connections to the internet while in the building.

The firm will work in partnership with BAA to power the hotspot, which T-Mobile said is the size of 50 football pitches.

To aid rapid and easy connection users will not need to use a USB dongle, but will have to be on a mobile contract that offers wireless connectivity. Alternatively, users can sign up to the service as and when they need.

Terminal 5's HotSpot service is priced at £5 for one hour's access, or £10 for 24 hours, payable by credit card.

T-Mobile customers on voice plans can set up a HotSpot account and opt to pay via their monthly bill at a charge of 75p for 10 minutes' access, the firm said.

The operator added that business users, out of the 27 million passengers expected to pass through the terminal each year, are likely to get the most out of the services.

"T-Mobile is committed to meeting the increasing demand for people on the move to be able to connect to the internet when and where they need to, whether for business or pleasure," said Richard Warmsley, head of internet on the move at T-Mobile UK.

Ian Denchfield, head of commercial telecoms at BAA, added: "BAA has a long-standing relationship with T-Mobile, together consistently meeting passengers' expectations to ensure up-to-the-minute technology for travellers.

"Seamless internet connectivity is an important part of our commitment to innovation and will form a key element in the future of travel. We hope Terminal 5 passengers enjoy the experience."