'Definitely felt a big bang': Delta plane hit by firework while landing in Chicago

July 5, 2026

A Delta Air Lines aircraft with 58 people aboard was struck by a firework while descending toward Chicago's Midway International Airport during Fourth of July celebrations marking America's 250th anniversary. The pilot reported feeling a significant impact at approximately 200 feet altitude and notified air traffic control, who had previously warned about residents launching fireworks near the airport approach path. Despite the collision, the aircraft landed without incident and no injuries occurred among passengers or crew.

Who is affected

52 passengers and 6 crew members aboard Delta flight 1076
Delta Air Lines
Federal Aviation Administration (receiving the incident report)
Chicago Police Department (investigating the incident)
Residents near Midway International Airport approach path (identified as launching fireworks)

What action is being taken

No explicit ongoing actions are described in the article. The article only mentions completed actions: the plane landed, was inspected, and the incident was reported to aviation authorities.

Why it matters

This incident highlights significant safety risks created when private fireworks are launched near airport flight paths, demonstrating how celebratory activities can endanger commercial aircraft during critical phases of flight. The collision occurred during descent at low altitude when aircraft are most vulnerable, and despite air traffic control warnings and police notification, the dangerous activity continued, raising questions about enforcement of safety regulations near airports during major holidays.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC