Delta plane hit by firework while landing in Chicago
A Delta Air Lines flight carrying 52 passengers and six crew members was struck by a firework while descending into Chicago Midway airport on Saturday night. The plane landed safely with no injuries, though the pilot reported feeling a 'big bang'.
On Saturday night, Delta Air Lines Flight 1076 from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to Chicago Midway was hit by a firework as it prepared to land. The aircraft, an Airbus A319, carried 52 passengers and six crew. It landed safely and taxied to the gate without any injuries, according to a Delta spokesperson.
Audio recordings capture the pilot telling air traffic control: "We just had a firework hit our plane. We're just hoping it was just a mortar that went off underneath but definitely felt a big bang." The event occurred at about 200 feet (61 metres) altitude. Controllers had earlier warned about fireworks being set off from homes near the airport approach path.
The Chicago Police Department described the object as "unknown" and said it caused minor paint damage. An inspection after landing found no damage to the plane. The incident was reported to the FAA. Meanwhile, in Washington DC, a large official fireworks display prompted a temporary suspension of flights at Ronald Reagan National Airport.
