Delta Air Lines Flight 1076 was reportedly struck by a firework during its final approach to Chicago’s Midway International Airport on the evening of July 4. Flight-tracking records show the aircraft touched down just before 8:40 p.m. Central. Air traffic control audio, released in the wake of the incident, indicates the contact occurred as the airplane descended to an altitude of roughly 200 to 250 feet.
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A Delta Air Lines jet on final approach with landing gear down. Delta Flight 1076 was reportedly struck by a firework while landing at Chicago’s Midway International Airport on the Fourth of July.
According to the recording, the flight crew reported feeling a sudden impact during the approach. The pilot relayed to controllers: “We’re just hoping it was just a mortar that went off underneath but definitely felt a big bang.” That description came as the airplane was close to the runway and in the final moments before touchdown.
Air traffic controllers told the crew that multiple similar reports had been received in the immediate area. Controllers also communicated that city authorities planned to notify the Chicago Police Department about the reports. The pilot and controllers exchanged information while the aircraft continued its approach and prepared to land.
The jet completed its landing and taxied off the runway. There were no injuries reported among passengers or crew after the aircraft arrived on the ground. Airport and airline personnel moved to inspect the airplane as part of routine post-landing checks following the reported strike.
While the airplane was on the ground, it underwent an evaluation to determine whether any damage occurred as a result of the reported firework strike. Airline and airport teams conducted visible checks and assessments to ensure the aircraft was safe for passengers and crew. Officials on scene confirmed the aircraft was being examined following its arrival.
Federal aviation authorities said they will open an inquiry into the event. The Federal Aviation Administration has jurisdiction over incidents involving potential hazards to civil aviation and will review available evidence, including air traffic recordings and any physical findings from the airplane inspection.
The incident took place amid Fourth of July activities in the city, when fireworks displays and private pyrotechnic use are common. Air traffic control’s report of multiple similar calls suggests other observers in the area noted fireworks activity around the time of the airplane’s approach. City authorities were notified so that law enforcement could follow up on reports and seek information about the source of the pyrotechnic activity.
Officials from the airline and the airport have not released additional technical details about the aircraft’s condition or the findings of the on-site evaluation. Investigators with federal and local authorities will review the circumstances to determine exactly what occurred, how the firework came to be in the airplane’s flight path, and whether any further action is needed.
Delta stated that mechanics found no damage to the Airbus A319 after thorough inspection, though the aircraft was taken out of service. Air traffic controllers had warned the crew of fireworks launched from multiple nearby homes along the approach path, ABC 7 Chicago reported. The FAA continues its investigation.
Delta said Flight 1076 had originated at Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport and departed ATL at about 7:50–7:51 p.m. Eastern; the Airbus A319 was carrying 52 passengers and six crew members.
Chicago police told CBS Chicago the aircraft’s fuselage sustained minor paint damage and referred further questions to the FBI, which has been contacted as part of follow‑up inquiries.