Osamu Saito Glider Aviation Technology Research Institute
The Reason for This Website
Osamu Saito Glider Aviation Technology Research Institute
As part of activities to utilize the Japan Aeronautic Associations’ Aviation Heritage Inheritance Fund
“J-BIRD Prewar Japanese Civil Aircraft by Photograph and Registration Number" was published.
Inspired by this, I established the “Osamu Saito Glider Aviation Technology Research Institute” on December 16, 2021 in order to inherit the heritage (Gliders, Marine sport boats, paragliders, etc.) left by my father-in-law and pass on the various development aircraft to future generations.
Osamu Saito’s profile
Birthplace : 48 Higashikubocho, Nishi-ku, Yokohama (former)
Date of Birth : February 11, 1925
Date of Death: November 18, 2010, 85 years old
Work History :
1943 to 1945 Civil Aviation Bureau (former Ministry of Communications) Aviation Testing Laboratory Glider Section
In charge of manufacturing and periodic inspection of gliders
1946 to 1952 Worked at the Japan National Railway Technical Research Institute.
1952 to 1975 Manufactured 9 gliders (including acquiring airworthiness certifications).
1973 to 1978 Manufactured boats (Gyro Rider / Seahawk / Saturn / Comet, etc).
Exhibited at international boat shows. Provided technical guidance to Honda Motor Company, ect.
1980 to 1982 Manufactured 9 hang gliders and small gliders.
1995 to 2006 Lake Biwa Birdman Tournament Judge.
Director of Japan Hang Gliding and Paragliding Federation
Vice Chairman of Accident Investigation Experimental Aircraft Federation (EXAL)
(Formerly Japan Self-Made Aviation Federation (JABAL)).
December 6th and 7th, 2003
Special Lecture at the 9th Sky Sports Symposium Program “Birth of Lake Biwa Aircraft Contest” (Birdman as Seen by a Glider Designer).
June 2006-2009 Aviation Heritage Inheritance Fund Activities
what's new
