Delta Jet Struck by Firework Mortar on Final Approach to Chicago Midway

A Delta Air Lines flight was struck by a firework mortar on final approach to Chicago Midway International Airport on the evening of July 4, according to the airline and federal authorities. Delta Flight 1076, an Airbus A319 operating from Atlanta, was on approach when the crew reported a loud impact at approximately 200 feet above ground level. The aircraft landed safely at 8:33 p.m. CDT with 52 passengers and six crew members aboard; no injuries were reported.

In air traffic control recordings, a crew member is heard saying, "We just had a firework hit our plane," and later added they "definitely felt a big bang." The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the pilot reported a fireworks mortar strike at approximately 8:30 p.m. CDT. Delta said the aircraft was inspected after landing and no damage was found, though Chicago police initially described minor paint damage from an unknown object. The incident has been reported to aviation regulators and remains under investigation.

Fireworks near airports present a well-documented hazard, particularly during holiday celebrations. At low altitude, sudden flashes or impacts can distract flight crews during one of the most critical phases of flight. Video of the incident shared by the YouTube aviation channel TakingOff spread rapidly across social media, amplifying public awareness of the risks posed by high-trajectory fireworks launched in residential areas beneath active approach corridors. While this event ended without injury or significant aircraft damage, it renews calls for stricter enforcement of fireworks restrictions near flight paths.