A Delta Air Lines flight was struck by a fireworks mortar while descending into Chicago Midway International Airport on July 4, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Delta Flight 1076 landed safely at Midway around 8:30 p.m. local time after the crew reported the incident shortly before landing. The flight had departed from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport at 7:51 p.m. ET and landed at Midway at 8:33 p.m. CT, as confirmed by a Delta spokesperson.
The Airbus A319 was carrying 52 passengers and six crew members, with no injuries reported. A Delta spokesperson stated that the flight landed and taxied to the gate without declaring an emergency. Following the landing, Delta mechanics inspected the aircraft and found no damage. However, Chicago police reported that the fireworks caused minor paint damage, and additional inspections were being conducted to assess any further damage. The FAA announced it will investigate the incident, and it is currently unclear where the fireworks were launched from or if those responsible have been identified. Delta has stated it will cooperate fully with the FAA and other authorities during the investigation.