Orion Safety Products has issued a recall for self-contained red meteor flares that may be brought onto general aviation airplanes as carry-on equipment or as part of an emergency safety kit. Per the recall notice, Orion Safety Products, the manufacturer of the hand-launched Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signals (“XLTs”) received a report indicating that an XLT ignited without the safety cap being removed or the ignition cord being pulled. The report and photographs indicate that the XLT did not launch but burned in place. Two additional incidents have also been reported. There were no reported injuries. The FAA is not aware of any incidents occurring on aircraft.
The Orion Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signals recall notification and additional information is available on their website: https://www.orionsignals.com/project/recall-notices/
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has issued Safety Alert 21-25, Recall of Orion Skyblazer II Red XLT Aerial Signal, dated 12/24/2025.
USCG Safety Alert 21-25: https://www.dco.uscg.mil/Portals/9/DCO%20Documents/5p/CG-5PC/INV/Alerts/USCGSA_2125.pdf
FAA Advisory Circular (AC) 91-58A, Use of Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signaling Devices in Aviation, suggests standards and procedures for the acquisition, use, and storage of pyrotechnic visual distress signaling devices that are intended for use in aircraft emergencies.
FAA AC 91-58A: https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/613B15BA5A02FCF4862569E70077CA08.0001
The FAA is aware of this issue and is investigating if corrective action may be appropriate. No determination has been made at this time.
For questions or additional information, please contact:
Davis Mokry
Aviation Safety Engineer (Mechanical Systems)
Davis.E.Mokry@faa.gov
(404) 474-5536
