Belfast City Airport is seeking permission to extend its evening flights from 21:30 BST to 22:30 as part of a major expansion plan.
The operator also wants to increase its annual flight limit by 27%, raising the cap from 48,000 to 61,000 movements a year.
The changes would require a modification to the airport’s legally binding Planning Agreement, with the final decision likely to rest with the infrastructure minister.
The proposals may provoke opposition from local residents’ groups and environmental campaigners.
Matthew Hall, chief executive at Belfast City Airport, said extended operating hours and increased traffic movement limits are “critical” for the airport to meet the forecast increase in demand for air travel.
“The proposed changes would provide the operational flexibility required to facilitate airline schedules and future route development, while continuing to operate within a framework that recognises the importance of balancing growth with our commitment to being a responsible neighbour,” he added.
Modifying the Planning Agreement will involve a lengthy process that involves councils and other planning bodies.
It will run in parallel to the airport’s planning process for a major expansion to its facilities which was first outlined last year.