A new business partnership at the Yarmouth International Airport.

They’ve signed a five-year agreement with Spiri Robotics.

The company will research, test and develop drones at the airport year-round.

Acting general manager of the airport corporation Greg Shay says it’s exciting.

“It’s a great facility that’s underutilized. It’s got great capacity for this type of industry. This will add activity around the airport and will help with our revenue,” said Shay.

Shay is hoping this will generate employment opportunities in the area.

He says they’ll continue to look for more ways to grow the airport.

“We’re trying to get the airport back on the aviation radar. We’ve been making some changes, and this latest Spiri transaction will give us the nucleus for some more activity happening in the future.”

The airport currently hosts Emergency Life Flight services, RCAF exercises, the Coast Guard and general aviation activities.