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Risk of Explosion and Hearing Damage Prompts Recall of Remote Control Airplanes

U.S. CPSCDamage to hearingDamage to sightJul 24, 2007
Recalled Radio Control Airplane
Recalled Radio Control Airplane

Photos from the official notice: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission · image rights

Hazard

The airplanes are launched by hand and can explode near the consumer's head, posing a risk of temporary hearing loss and injuries to eyes, face and hands.

Remedy

Consumers should stop using the recalled airplanes immediately and contact Estes-Cox to verify that their plane is being recalled and for instructions on returning the airplane for a replacement product.

Incidents & injuries

Estes-Cox has received 45 reports of airplanes exploding, including 22 reports of consumers experiencing temporary ear pain or hearing being affected; five reports of minor burns to hands, faces or eyes; two reports of chest impact from debris; two reports of eye injuries; and one report of a cut hand. One consumer sought medical attention for burning eyes.

Product description

This recall involves Model 4116 Sky Rangers Park Flyer radio control airplanes, which come with a black battery charger. The airplanes have a wingspan of about 14 inches, a light blue, white and orange polystyrene foam fuselage, and a copper coil on the rudder. Airplanes with a warning sticker on the fuselage near the on/off switch are not included in the recall.

Sold on

Hobby stores and other retailers nationwide from September 2005 through December 2006 for between $20 and $40.

Contact the company

For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Thursday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.estesrockets.com

What should I do?

Stop using the product and follow the remedy below. Contact the company for a refund, repair or replacement — recall remedies are free.

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