While preparing this response, a number of reliable sources were utilized. Google’s support center, which thoroughly explains top-level domains, was among them. In addition, ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names & Numbers), which manages the internet’s domain system, was consulted, along with Verisign, a global provider of domain name registry services and internet infrastructure.
As highlighted by these sources, a top-level domain (TLD), represents the rightmost segment of an internet domain name. TLDs have evolved significantly and today we see various types ranging from the original generic TLDs (.com, .net, etc), country code TLDs (.us, .uk, etc) and then the newer sponsored TLDs and unrestricted TLDs. The TLD you are inquiring about, .FLY, falls into the category of a sponsored TLD (sTLD). sTLDs are specialized domains that are proposed and sponsored by private agencies or organizations that establish and enforce rules limiting the eligibility to use the TLD.
Currently, .FLY is not available as a registered and active domain extension. According to ICANN, there is no .FLY TLD in the root zone database. The .FLY extension would certainly be interesting given the potential appeal to the aviation industry such as airlines, travel websites, drone hobbyists, etc. However, at this time, no such TLD exists in the approved ICANN list.
The process to add new TLD like .FLY is extensive according to ICANN. It involves application, evaluation, and bidding rounds which can take years to complete. Past examples of successful new gTLDs include .BANK sponsored by the Financial Services Roundtable and .NYC which is for residents of New York City. In the case of .BANK, regulation and security is provided by fTLD Registry Services, LLC, to ensure it’s used exclusively by legitimate banks.
To keep abreast of the status of .FLY or any other proposed TLD, monitoring the ICANN meetings and announcements can be helpful as this is where new TLD discussions take place. In addition, checking the status of the root zone database on regular basis to see if .FLY or any other TLD has been added is also beneficial.
In conclusion, the .FLY TLD does not currently exist according to official databases maintained by ICANN and Verisign. If it were to be proposed and accepted in the future, it could serve beneficial uses within contexts such as aviation and travel. As of now, the best course of action would be to keep an eye on ICANN, as they are instrumental in the addition of new TLDs.
Sources:
1. Google Support – Understanding domain name structure
2. ICANN Root Zone Database
3. ICANN New gTLD Current Application Status
4. Verisign Domain Name Industry Brief
5. fTLD Registry Services, LLC
6. .BANK domain is managed by fTLD Registry Services, LLC.
7. New York City becomes first city with a top-level domain name
8. ICANN’s current operating procedures for proposing sponsored TLDs.
