GENEVA, Switzerland - Registrations for '.aero', the new top level Internet domain for the aviation industry, start today. Sponsored by SITA, the global aviation IT and telecommunications solutions provider, '.aero' is dedicated to and governed by the aviation industry. SITA and its industry partners will ensure that all users meet strict eligibility criteria so that '.aero' both protects and promotes existing aviation brands. The launch marks the first time that a specific industry grouping has been responsible for developing its own Internet domain.

Martin Gaskell, SITA's Director '.aero' said: "Large numbers of aviation companies missed out on registering their brands as '.com' domain names and will now want to protect them under '.aero'. We have already received fantastic interest in the '.aero' web site and from today eligible aviation companies will be able to purchase '.aero' domain names. We are actively working with all the industry associations to help create a predictive and structured domain that will improve efficiency and facilitate the development of Internet-based systems across the whole industry."

In the first phase airlines and aircraft operators, air navigation services providers, airports, aviation industry associations and civil aviation authorities will be able to reserve and purchase '.aero' domain names. Members of Airports Council International (ACI), Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO) and SITA have already been provided with proof of identity, in the form of a membership ID and password. Other eligible organizations can obtain these from www.information.aero. Selected domain names can then be purchased from the official registrars listed. As part of the staggered roll-out other aviation groups and individuals, from air-freight and logistics, aerospace, media, pilots and recreational activities will all be able to register in the coming months.

In addition to ACI and CANSO, organizations such as F&eactue;d&eactue;ration A&eactue;ronautique Internationale (FAI), International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) are already actively involved. Other associations, representing all sectors of aviation, are expected to join in the coming months.

For more information contact: .aero.enquiries@sita.aero