BAA, its operator, said in a contract notice that the provider will be responsible for network services at Terminal 2 of the airport, where a new terminal building and car park are being built, as well as new aircraft stands. It is looking for a single provider only.

The work will include "project management, design, procurement, installation, configuration, optimisation, testing and commissioning, [and] integration" at the terminal.

There is also the option to extend the networking deal by a further three years. Suppliers have until 19 March to participate, and BAA is seeking the most "economically advantageous" tender.

BAA is currently working on extensive IT changes at Heathrow Airport, as part of a that also covers its other airports, Stansted, Aberdeen, Southampton, Edinburgh and Glasgow. Last December, it sold Gatwick Airport following a ruling by the competition commission.

The IT overhaul centres on Heathrow, where BAA is investing in software to provide a , which will aim to ensure the airport has the right staff in place, including security and check-in staff, according to influxes of passengers. The system will also support quick staff deployment in case of crisis.