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Fireworks Strike Delta Plane Mid-Air
5 Jul
Summary
- Delta flight experienced fireworks impact during descent.
- The aircraft landed safely with no reported injuries.
- Incident occurred during US Independence Day celebrations.
Delta flight 1076, en route from Atlanta to Chicago, was struck by fireworks as it approached Midway International Airport on Saturday night. The aircraft, an Airbus A319 with 52 passengers and six crew members aboard, reported the impact occurred at approximately 200 feet above the ground.
The pilot informed air traffic control of a "big bang" and the encounter with a firework while on descent. Controllers had previously issued a caution regarding numerous homes launching fireworks near the approach path. The flight, which departed Atlanta at 19:51 EDT, landed safely in Chicago at 20:33 CDT.
Following the incident, the aircraft was inspected at the gate, and no damage was found. The Federal Aviation Administration was notified, and the event was reported to aviation authorities. This occurrence took place during the widespread fireworks displays celebrating the United States' 250th anniversary.
