I don't believe you can do this but Why don't you drop the .ait file in the template folder and when you go to create a new file click on the Templates button?

You also didnt specify what version you are using. If you are using CS6 you can create a Template Layer.

I don't believe you can do this but why don't you drop the .ait file in the template folder and when you go to create a new file click on the Templates button?

Reference: Illustrator / Files and templates

or open by clicking at the top and you can select New from Template (Shift+ Ctrl+N)

You also didnt specify what version you are using. If you are using CS6 you can create a Template Layer.

• Reference: How to create a template layer?
• Tutorial: How to Create a Template Layer in Adobe Illustrator CS6