This report examines alternative root server systems and alternative TLD name system administrators generically, i.e. according to the characteristics SSAC associates with a class of operator rather than by the characteristics of individual operators.

By elevating our examination to this level, we can focus on the common characteristics of each class of operator, and perhaps more accurately assess whether TLD name system administration and root name service operation of a given class create security and stability issues.

Many of the broadly spread governance issues that have been discussed during the past couple of years have been addressed within this community environment.

On 17 March 2002, .aero the first top level Internet domain to be sponsored and introduced by a specific community sector, opened its doors for business..

The first in a series introducing readers to the close-knit members of the .aero team – those responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of the domain on behalf of the air transport community. In this issue, we meet Elena Vladkova, .aero customer liaison Specialist.

My job title is ".aero customer liaison Specialist", but as always, it doesn't easily describe what I do from day to day. I have three specific responsibilities: operate the .aero office, supervise the registry operation; and handle administrative requirements.

Whilst the air transport community is working hard to save billions in annual costs through initiatives such as IATA's Simplifying the Business programme, focused on five core projects: e-ticketing, common use self-service (CUSS), bar-coded boarding passes, RFID and e-freight.