German companies, though, do not have a global market share like US companies such as Piper, Beechcraft and Cessna. Aviation technology companies Aviation technology companies implement repair work, maintenance and servicing. They estimate the number at around 400 companies. The German environment Research and development in the field of aviation equipment for general aviation is expensive and therefore, almost impossible without public funding. As already stated the promotion of development of light aircraft for general aviation is not incorporated in the German Aviation Research and Technology Program.
General aviation falls under the responsibility of the federal states.
Fuel costs A very important factor influencing general aviation are fuel costs. Based on 1996 statistics, general aviation pays approximately USD 32 million fuel oil tax per annum. Registered helicopter amounted to 704. TradePort is an authorized distributor of STAT-USA data.