Recall: Radio Transmitters for Model Aircrafts Recalled by Horizon Hobby Due to Impact and Laceration Hazards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2009
Release #09-179

Firm's Recall Hotline: (877) 504-0233
CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908


Radio Transmitters for Model Aircrafts Recalled by Horizon Hobby Due to Impact and Laceration Hazards

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Spektrum DX6i Radio Transmitters used with model aircrafts

Units: About 15,000

Manufacturer: Horizon Hobby Inc., of Champaign, Ill.

Hazard: The defective radio transmitters can cause model airplanes and helicopters they control to fall from the sky while in flight and crash into bystanders or property. The propellers can also spin unexpectedly injuring a person standing too close or working on the aircraft. This poses impact and laceration hazards to consumers and a risk of property damage.

Incidents/Injuries: Horizon Hobby is aware of two injuries that resulted in multiple cuts to the hands.

Description: The recalled Spektrum DX6i radio transmitters are used to control model airplanes and helicopters. “Spektrum DX6i” is printed on the front of the transmitters. The transmitters were sold individually or as part of three different ready-to-fly model aircraft. Item numbers and product date codes included in this recall are listed below. The item number is located on the product’s packaging. The date code is located on a label inside the transmitter’s battery compartment or on the underside of the battery compartment door.

Product Item Numbers Date Codes
Include:
Spektrum DX6i 6-Channel Full
Range Radio Transmitter
SPM6600
SPM6600E
SPM66001E
SPMR6600
SPMR6600E
SPMR66001
SPMR66001E
807E
808E
809E
810E
811E
812E
901E
E-Flite Blade 400 Ready-To-Fly
Electric Mini Helicopter
EFLH1400
EFLH1400M1
EFLH1400M2
E-Flite T-34 25 ePTS Ready-to-
Fly Airplane
EFL4800
Hangar 9 P-51 Mustang Mk II
PTS Ready-to-Fly Airplane
HAN4425

Sold at: Independently-owned model and hobby shops from July 2008 through January 2009 for about $200 for the transmitter, or for between $400 and $500 for the transmitter when sold with a model airplane or helicopter.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled radio transmitters and contact Horizon Hobby to arrange to have the transmitters shipped free of charge for inspection and repair.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Horizon Hobby toll-free at (877) 504-0233 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site www.horizonhobby.com


Picture of Recalled Radio Transmitter

Picture of location of date code label