A Delta Air Lines flight was reportedly struck by fireworks while landing at Chicago Midway International Airport on Saturday evening. The incident occurred as Delta Flight 1076 descended towards the airport, with the pilot informing air traffic control,
We just had a firework hit our plane,
according to audio recordings. The pilot described feeling a significant impact, saying,
We’re just hoping it was just a mortar that went off underneath, but definitely felt a big bang.
Key Details
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the incident. Delta confirmed that the flight landed safely around 8:30 p.m. local time and that no injuries were reported. The FAA stated that local authorities and the airline should be contacted for further information. Air traffic control noted multiple reports of similar incidents during the evening, prompting one controller to warn a Southwest Airlines flight, "Welcome to the war zone."
Background
City officials have been alerted to the potential dangers posed by fireworks to arriving and departing flights. Controllers expressed uncertainty about the actions local police might take in response to the situation. Delta Air Lines has not provided additional comments regarding the event.
Related coverage: Spectacle Island in Sydney to be sold by Defence Department.
Limited direct market relevance; the development matters more for aviation safety than for traded assets. Watch for updates from the FAA regarding the investigation's findings and any potential regulatory changes concerning fireworks near airports.