06.07.2026 00:10
Fireworks that illuminated the sky during Independence Day celebrations in the USA caused a dangerous incident this time. A firework struck a Delta Air Lines passenger aircraft descending for landing in Chicago in the final moments of the flight, causing great panic. Thanks to the pilots' cool-headed intervention, the plane was safely brought down to the runway.
The incident that occurred during Independence Day celebrations in Chicago, USA, raised concerns about aviation security. A Delta Air Lines passenger plane traveling from Atlanta to Chicago came into contact with fireworks while approaching for landing. There were no injuries, and the aircraft landed safely on the runway before being taken for technical inspection.
INCIDENT OCCURRED DURING LANDING
According to a report by the British Daily Mail and air traffic control records, Delta Air Lines flight 1076, an Airbus-type passenger aircraft, came into contact with fireworks while approaching Chicago Midway International Airport during the ongoing July 4th Independence Day celebrations.
The incident occurred around 8:40 PM local time, when the aircraft was at an altitude of approximately 60 to 75 meters, and it was reported that fireworks were being intensely set off from nearby residential areas.
PILOTS INFORMED TOWER VIA RADIO
Radio communications captured in air traffic control records revealed that the pilots had previously been warned about fireworks being launched from areas dangerously close to the flight corridor.
Soon after, the cockpit crew contacted the tower, sharing the information, "A firework just hit our aircraft."
The pilots stated that in their initial assessment, they believed the impact occurred on the lower part of the aircraft, and noted that the plane needed to be thoroughly inspected once it reached the parking position.
AIRCRAFT LANDED SAFELY ON RUNWAY
Despite the incident, the cockpit crew continued the landing procedure without declaring an emergency. The Delta Air Lines passenger aircraft landed smoothly at Chicago Midway International Airport and was towed to the parking area following normal procedures.
It was reported that no injuries occurred among passengers or crew.
DELTA ISSUED A STATEMENT
Following the incident, Delta Air Lines issued a statement confirming that the aircraft may have come into contact with a firework during its descent.
The company announced that, as part of safety procedures, the aircraft had been temporarily removed from service and would undergo comprehensive technical inspection before being returned to operation.
AVIATION SECURITY BACK ON THE AGENDA
Experts highlight that fireworks used uncontrollably, especially during large celebrations, can pose a serious risk to aircraft flying at low altitudes. The recent incident in Chicago has brought back attention to safety measures regarding firework use near airports.