A Delta Air Lines flight experienced a loud bang and impact shortly before landing at Chicago Midway International Airport on July 4, after reportedly being struck by a firework. The incident occurred around 8:40 p.m. CDT as Delta Flight 1076, traveling from Atlanta, was on final descent at an altitude of approximately 200 to 250 feet.
Air traffic control communications revealed that the flight crew had been alerted to fireworks being launched in close proximity to the airport's arrival corridor. Shortly after this warning, the pilots reported hearing a significant "loud bang" and feeling an impact, stating, "we've just had a firework hit our plane." Crew members expressed concern, noting they would need to inspect the aircraft upon arrival.
Despite the reported strike, the pilots maintained composure and completed the landing safely without declaring an emergency. The aircraft taxied to the gate normally, and no injuries were reported among the 168 passengers and crew aboard. Following the event, Delta confirmed the incident and removed the aircraft from service for a thorough inspection by maintenance crews.
Chicago Midway Airport is situated near densely populated neighborhoods, where aerial fireworks are common during Fourth of July celebrations. The proximity of these displays to the airport's flight paths can create potential hazards for aircraft. While commercial airliners are designed to withstand various environmental conditions, encounters with fireworks remain unusual.
The exact origin of the firework and whether it exploded beneath the aircraft or directly impacted the fuselage has not been specified. The Federal Aviation Administration has not yet announced if a formal investigation will be launched into the incident.