Plane Struck by Firework at Chicago Airport

Delta Flight 1076, a Boeing 757 en route from Atlanta to Chicago, was struck by a firework near Midway Airport on July 4, the Fourth of July, but landed safely without injuries or damage. The incident occurred as the aircraft approached the airport, with witnesses reporting a visible spark near the plane’s fuselage. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials confirmed the firework originated from the ground, though the exact source remains under investigation. The flight, carrying 158 passengers and five crew members, landed at 6:24 p.m. local time after a routine inspection cleared it for continued operations.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and FAA are collaborating to determine the circumstances of the firework discharge, which violated federal regulations prohibiting the use of such devices near airports. Delta Air Lines issued a statement emphasizing its commitment to safety, noting that the crew followed emergency protocols and no structural damage was found. Authorities have urged the public to avoid launching fireworks near airports, citing the risk of midair collisions or engine ingestion. The incident underscores heightened safety concerns during holiday periods when fireworks activity increases.