Fairchild also makes a CNY17-1, but as was already stated, there is not really much special about it. Why wouldn't, say, a 4N35 work for you?
The major difference in the CNY17 series and the 4N3x series is the BVceo -- the CNY17 is min 70V, typ 100V (Ic=1mA If=0), while the 4N35 is min 30V, typ 65V (Ic=10mA If=0). If the breakdown voltage rating isn't a problem, the 4N35 should work for you, and they're very easily sourced.