About .aero domain
The .aero domain is a sponsored top-level domain (sTLD) operated by SITA INC B.V. It was delegated in late 2001, making it the first TLD dedicated to a single industrial theme. The domain is governed by a sponsorship agreement with ICANN and is managed with input from the Dot Aero Council. Its purpose is to serve as a dedicated namespace for a specific community.
Who can register .aero domain
Registration is restricted to verified members of the global aviation and aerospace community. Eligible entities include airlines, airports, aircraft operators, aerospace manufacturers, aviation service providers, and related associations or government agencies. Applicants must provide credentials to prove their affiliation with the industry during the registration process. There is also a structure allowing some categories of users to register at the second level, while others may register at the third level under specific second-level names.
How to register .aero domain
- Verify your eligibility within the aviation or aerospace industry, as you will need to provide credentials to an accredited registrar during the application process.
- Search for your desired .aero domain name through an accredited registrar to check its availability, noting that certain two-letter and three-letter codes have specific reservations.
- Complete the registration application and checkout with the registrar, which will submit your credentials to the registry for validation before the domain is activated.
- Once approved, configure your domain's DNS settings and ensure your contact details remain accurate, as the registry may conduct periodic eligibility audits.
Typical uses of .aero domain
The .aero extension is predominantly used by organizations directly involved in air travel and aerospace. Airlines, airports, and aircraft manufacturers utilize it to establish a clear, industry-specific online identity, distinguishing themselves from generic commercial domains. Aviation service providers, industry associations, and related government bodies also register .aero domains to signal their specialization and commitment to the aviation community. Users choose this TLD to align their web address directly with their core business in the aviation sector, fostering trust and recognition within that industry.
Tips for registering .aero domain
- Registration requires validation of the applicant's credentials as a member of the aviation or aerospace community before the domain is activated.
- The TLD has a structured namespace where some user categories register at the second level, while others register at the third level under specific second-level domains.
- Disputes over domain eligibility (e.g., whether a registrant qualifies) are handled via the Charter Eligibility Dispute Resolution Procedure (CEDRP), in addition to the standard UDRP for trademark disputes.
- Certain two-letter codes under .aero are reserved for airlines according to IATA airline designators.
Frequently asked questions about .aero domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .aero domain?
As of today, .aero domains start from $44.99/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $106.64/yr across 9 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .aero domains?
NameBeta tracks 9 registrars that support .aero domain registration, with the cheapest option at $44.99/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .aero domain?
The registry for .aero domains is Societe Internationale de Telecommunications Aeronautique, administered by Societe Internationale de Telecommunications Aeronautique (SITA INC USA).
Who can register a .aero domain?
Registration is open to entities and individuals with a verifiable connection to aviation or aerospace. This includes airlines, airports, maintenance organizations, manufacturers, and industry associations. During the application, you must provide documentation or credentials proving this affiliation to the accredited registrar, who will forward it to the registry for approval. The process ensures the namespace remains dedicated to its intended community.
Can I transfer a .aero domain between registrars?
Transferring a .aero domain between registrars follows the standard inter-registrar transfer process but requires the domain to be in an active status and unlocked. The gaining registrar will initiate the transfer, and you must confirm it via the authorization code (EPP code). It's important to ensure your eligibility credentials with the registry are up-to-date, as a transfer does not re-trigger the initial validation process.
What is the Charter Eligibility Dispute Resolution Procedure (CEDRP)?
The CEDRP is a specific dispute policy for .aero domains that challenges whether a registrant meets the TLD's eligibility requirements. If a third party believes a domain holder is not part of the aviation community, they can file a CEDRP complaint. This process is separate from the UDRP, which deals with trademark infringement, and focuses solely on enforcing the sponsored community's registration rules.
Are there any reserved names under .aero?
Yes, the registry reserves certain names. Two-letter codes (like .xx.aero) are reserved exclusively for airlines based on IATA airline designators. While three-letter airport codes were initially reserved, they were released for general registration by the aviation community in 2008. Some second-level names are also structured for specific user categories, guiding where different types of entities can register.
Can individuals register a .aero domain, or is it only for organizations?
Individuals can register a .aero domain if they can demonstrate a professional or operational involvement in the aviation or aerospace field. This could include pilots, aircraft engineers, aviation consultants, or other professionals whose work is integrally linked to the industry. The key requirement is providing verifiable credentials that satisfy the registry's eligibility criteria during the application process.
