Chicago-bound plane hit by firework while landing

A Delta Air Lines flight carrying 52 passengers and six crew members was hit by a firework as it prepared to land at Chicago's Midway International Airport on Saturday night. The flight from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport reported contact with a firework while descending, an airline spokesperson told the BBC. The aircraft landed safely and taxied to the gate without any injuries. The incident was reported to aviation authorities.

Audio recordings show the pilot informing air traffic control: "We just had a firework hit our plane." The pilot stated the impact occurred at about 200 feet (61 meters). "We're just hoping it was just a mortar that went off underneath but definitely felt a big bang."

Prior to the incident, controllers warned of fireworks near the airport. "Delta 1076... use caution, there are multiple homes near the approach end shooting off fireworks," an air traffic control officer said. "There have been multiple reports as you can imagine," the controller added. "The city is aware. They said they would notify the Chicago police, but you know, I don't know what they will do."

The Chicago Police Department told the BBC the aircraft was struck by an unknown object, causing minor paint damage. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the incident around 20:30 CDT, according to CBS News. The Airbus A319 was inspected after landing, and no damage was found, according to the airline.

The incident occurred as millions across the United States celebrated the nation's 250th anniversary with fireworks, part of the annual Independence Day tradition. While large displays are often organized by state and local governments, private, unsupervised fireworks are also common. In Washington DC, the milestone was marked by a 40-minute National Park Service fireworks display at the Washington National Mall. Flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were suspended from noon on Saturday to accommodate military flyovers and the pyrotechnic show.