A Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to Chicago was hit by a firework during its final approach to Midway International Airport on the evening of July 5, the day the United States celebrated its 250th anniversary of independence.
The 52‑passenger, six‑crew Airbus A319 was descending when an unknown object, later identified as a firework, struck the aircraft at an altitude of about 200 feet. The pilot reported the impact to air traffic control, describing a “big bang” that occurred beneath the plane, and was subsequently warned by controllers of fireworks launched from homes near the airport approach.
Despite the abrupt encounter, the aircraft landed safely, taxiing to the gate without injury to passengers or crew. An inspection after the flight found only minor paint damage, and no other structural impact was reported.
Chicago police confirmed that the plane had been struck by an unknown projectile and that the incident caused only superficial damage. The Federal Aviation Administration logged the event, noting that the firework impact happened around 20:30 CDT.
The incident highlights the challenges of managing airspace during large public celebrations, where state‑organised displays are common but private fireworks still pose risks to aircraft. This event underscores the importance of heightened coordination between airlines, air traffic controllers, and local authorities during such events.
