Delta pilot reports a close encounter with a July Fourth firework before landing in Chicago

On Saturday night, Delta flight 1076 experienced a close encounter with a firework during its descent into Chicago Midway International Airport. The pilot reported hearing a "big bang" on the aircraft at an altitude of 200 to 250 feet. The flight, originating from Atlanta with 52 passengers and six crew members, landed safely shortly after 8:30 p.m. local time without any reported injuries. Delta mechanics inspected the Airbus A319 and found no damage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated it will investigate the incident, and an air traffic controller's recording indicated multiple reports of similar encounters during the Fourth of July celebrations.

A Delta flight, Delta 1076, carrying 52 passengers and six crew, was struck by an unknown object, later identified as a firework, while landing in Chicago around 8:30 PM CDT. Air traffic control had warned the pilot about fireworks being set off from homes near the approach. The incident caused minor paint damage to the Airbus A319, though the aircraft was inspected and found to have no damage after landing. The Chicago Police Department confirmed the aircraft was struck by an unknown object. The Federal Aviation Administration also acknowledged the incident. No injuries were reported among those onboard.