Firework strikes Delta flight during landing at Chicago Midway — another Independence Day ‘celebration’ gone wrong

A Delta Air Lines Airbus A319 operating flight DL1076 from Atlanta to Chicago was struck by a firework as it descended for landing at Chicago Midway International Airport on July 4. The impact occurred at approximately 8:30 pm local time, when the aircraft was about 200 feet above ground.

The pilots reported hearing a loud bang and confirmed to air traffic control that they believed a firework had hit the aircraft. They continued the landing and taxied to the gate without further incident.

No injuries were reported among the 52 passengers and six crew members on board. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is investigating the incident.

Air traffic control had previously warned the pilots about firework activity near the approach path, noting multiple reports of fireworks in the area. The Chicago Police Department later confirmed the aircraft was struck by an unknown object, resulting in minor paint damage.

The incident highlights the recurring risks posed by unregulated fireworks during U.S. Independence Day celebrations, despite repeated warnings from aviation authorities.