A Delta Air Lines flight experienced a close encounter with a firework above Chicago on July 4th, with the pilot reporting a strike as the aircraft descended toward Chicago Midway International Airport.
The pilot of Delta flight 1076 communicated with air traffic controllers, describing a "big bang" on the plane just before landing. The incident occurred at an altitude of approximately 200 to 250 feet. The pilot expressed hope that the sound was from a mortar tube associated with fireworks.
The flight, originating from Atlanta with 52 passengers and six crew members, landed without any reported injuries. Delta stated that mechanics inspected the Airbus A319 upon arrival and found no damage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced an investigation into the incident.
According to audio recordings, air traffic controllers noted multiple reports of similar encounters on July 4th and indicated that city officials were aware. The FAA did not immediately confirm if it was investigating additional firework-related incidents impacting flights that evening. The Associated Press reached out to the city government and Chicago Police Department for further information.