Lower, Mark A (1860) Patronymica Britannica: a dictionary of the family names of the United Kingdom. London: J.R. Smith. Public Domain.
AIREY
As described in historical dictionaries
Patronymica Britannica (1860)
AIREY. This Cumberland family consider the name to have been borrowed from some elevated dwelling among llie mountains called an Eyrie, such designations for residences not being uncommon. The " Eagle's Nest " would be a much more eligible name for an abode than Rook'sncst. Goose-nest, or Stoat's-nest, which are still to be found. See Aquila. An aery also signifies a place for the breeding or training of hawks. Ellis, Introd. Domesd. I, 341.