Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 5
Delta Flight 1076 Hit by Firework at 200 Feet, Landing Safely in Chicago
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jul 5

Delta Flight 1076 Hit by Firework at 200 Feet, Landing Safely in Chicago

3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jul 5

Summary

  • 58 people were aboard Delta Flight 1076 when the Airbus A319 was struck by a firework during descent into Chicago Midway around 8:30 p.m., but it landed safely and no injuries were reported.
  • Air traffic control had warned the crew about multiple homes near the approach path shooting fireworks, and the pilot later radioed that the jet had taken a "big bang" at about 200 feet.
  • Delta said the aircraft was inspected after landing and no damage was found, though the incident was reported to aviation authorities.
  • The strike came as millions marked the United States' 250th anniversary with fireworks, underscoring risks from private pyrotechnics near airport approach corridors.

Insights

A firework struck a passenger jet over Chicago. What was the true damage, and will the person responsible be found?
After a firework hit a Delta plane, are new laws needed to protect air travel from holiday celebrations on the ground?