BMI is seeking permission to move its late flight

The delegation, including former enterprise minister Sir Reg Empey, met environment minister Angela Smith at Stormont on Monday.

People living in the east Belfast area have said they are concerned over an increase in flights to and from the airport.

It follows a decision by BMI to move all its Heathrow services to Belfast City Airport.

The airline also wants to introduce late night flights to accommodate its last service from London and is waiting for permission to be granted for the airport to stay open late.

A balance has to be struck between a decent standard of living for local people and the rights of air travellers Lady Sylvia Hermon Ulster Unionist MP

East Belfast MLA Sir Reg said the discussions centred on what would happen if the airport applied for permission for late night flights.

"The minister said that while she would have to take legal advice on the matter, it was highly likely that there would have to be a public consultation if a bid for night flights is forthcoming.

"The views of local residents have to be taken into consideration and we presented the minister with responses our party has received from numerous members of the community detailing their opposition to night time flying at the airport," he said.

North Down MP Lady Sylvia Hermon said: "A balance has to be struck between a decent standard of living for local people and the rights of air travellers."

BMI said a changed marketplace for airlines was the reason behind the decision, adding that it would improve services.

The airline moved most of its services from Belfast International Airport to the City airport in 2001 following a �21m upgrade to its terminal building.