In brief
On Saturday night, Delta flight 1076 was coming down to Chicago’s Midway International Airport when a fireworks display near the runway hit the aircraft. The incident caused only minor paint damage, with no injuries. Air traffic controllers warned of “multiple homes shooting off fireworks” and the FAA confirmed the event around 20:30 local time. Wireless recordings show the pilot reporting a “big bang” at about 200 feet above ground as the plane taxied to the gate safely.
Incident Overview: A Delta Airlines Airbus A319, carrying 52 passengers and six crew, was struck by a firework while preparing to land at Chicago’s Midway International Airport on Saturday night. The event caused only minor paint damage and there were no injuries.
Flight 1076 departed Atlanta’s Hartsfield‑Jackson Airport at 19:51 EDT (00:51 BST) and arrived in Chicago at 20:33 CDT (02:33 BST). According to airline spokespeople, the aircraft landed safely and taxied to the gate without incident.
Air Traffic Control Notes: Controllers warned of “multiple homes near the approach end shooting off fireworks” and urged caution as the plane descended. An FAA report said the event occurred around 20:30 CDT. The Chicago Police Department confirmed that the aircraft was struck by an unknown object, resulting only in minor paint scratches.
Fireworks Context: The incident happened during the annual fireworks display celebrating the United States’ 250th anniversary. While large displays are organized by government bodies, private and unsupervised fireworks are common and often pose unexpected hazards to aircraft.
The airline inspected the Airbus A319 after landing and found no damage beyond the paint. The FAA and FAA safety teams are currently reviewing the incident to determine if additional safety protocols are needed for future fireworks celebrations.
In Washington DC, the milestone anniversary was marked by a 40‑minute fireworks display at the National Mall, and flights were suspended at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport to accommodate the show. Security and aviation authorities are exploring ways to better coordinate fireworks timing with air traffic schedules.
