CPSC Recall in 2007: Estes-Cox Radio Control Airplanes with Lithium Polymer Batteries Recalled for Fire Hazard

Updated on March 25, 2026.

See the recall details below. You can also see similar information for other consumer product recalls in 2007.

Data Source: CPSC.

Recall Number: 07-139

Date: March 26, 2007

Product Name: Sky Squadron Model 4153 and Sky Rangers Model 4161 radio controlled airplanes with rechargeable lithium batteries

Recall Description:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo., is voluntarily recalling about 66,000 Radio Control Model Airplanes (Models 4153 and 4161) with Lithium Polymer Batteries. The airplanes can overheat while recharging the battery, posing a fire hazard.Name of product: Radio Control Model Airplanes (Models 4153 and 4161) with Lithium Polymer BatteriesUnits: About 66,000Distributor: Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.Hazard: The airplanes can overheat while recharging the battery, posing a fire hazard.Incidents/Injuries: Estes-Cox has received nine reports of overheating, including one report of a plane catching fire and resulting in a minor burn injury.Description: This recall involves Sky Squadron Model 4153 (sold at RadioShack) and Sky Rangers Model 4161 (sold at Wal-Mart) radio controlled airplanes with rechargeable lithium batteries. The airplanes have a wingspan of about 18 to 20 inches and a polystyrene foam fuselage. Model 4153 is a blue Corsair single engine airplane with a Number 15 decal and a black and blue transmitter/charger. Model 4161 is a red twin engine plane with an all-black transmitter/charger. The model numbers are on the box and instructions.Sold at: RadioShack stores nationwide sold the Sky Squadron Airplane from December 2006 through February 2007 for about $35. Wal-Mart stores nationwide sold the Sky Ranger Airplane from January 2007 through February 2007 for about $30.Manufactured in: ChinaRemedy: Consumers with the recalled airplanes should stop using them immediately and contact Estes-Cox for instructions on returning the airplane for a replacement product.Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at www.estesrockets.com.

Hazard Description:

The airplanes can overheat while recharging the battery, posing a fire hazard.

Consumer Action:

Remedy Type:

Replace

Units: About 66,000

Incidents:

Estes-Cox has received nine reports of overheating, including one report of a plane catching fire and resulting in a minor burn injury.

Sold At:

RadioShack stores nationwide sold the Sky Squadron Airplane from December 2006 through February 2007 for about $35. Wal-Mart stores nationwide sold the Sky Ranger Airplane from January 2007 through February 2007 for about $30.

Manufactured In:

China