Heathrow is one of the world's busiest airports

British Airways stopped its flights to Heathrow in October 2000, saying the route was losing too much money.

Now bmi, formerly known as British Midland, will operate a twice-daily flight from 26 March.

Its budget carrier, bmibaby, already operates services from the island to other airports, including Nottingham East Midlands and Cardiff.

The States said the link to Heathrow would secure new connections with hundreds of cities across the world and provide a significant boost for the island's finance and tourism industries.

International travellers

Economic Development Minister Philip Ozouf described the news as "fantastic" for the island's economy.

He said the route would make Jersey more accessible to international travellers and business people.

Deputy Alan Maclean said the talks with bmi, which have been taking place for about five weeks, were a direct result of Jersey Airport's route development strategy working with the States.

He told BBC News: "We're also talking to other operators about other destinations, particularly in Europe. It's very encouraging."

The final agreement will be signed on Friday and a review of the service carried out in three years.