Delta A319 Hit by Fireworks on July 4

The aircraft landed safely in Chicago.

Delta Airbus A319
A Delta Airbus A319. (Photo: AirlineGeeks | William Derrickson)
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A Delta Airbus A319 was struck by a fireworks mortar shortly before landing at Chicago Midway Airport.
  • The aircraft landed safely with no injuries to the 58 people onboard, and no damage was found upon inspection.
  • The incident occurred amidst multiple reports of fireworks being set off near the airport, and the FAA is investigating.
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A Delta Airbus A319 was hit by fireworks shortly before landing at Chicago Midway on Saturday.

According to the FAA, one of the pilots reported that a “fireworks mortar” struck the aircraft at about 200 feet.

“Definitely felt the big bang,” the pilot told air traffic controllers. A controller advised that there were “multiple reports” of fireworks being set off from homes near the airport, which is located on the southwest side of Chicago.

The airplane landed safely at Midway with no injuries among the 52 passengers and six crew. The A319 was inspected for damage, but none was found.

The flight originated in Atlanta.

The FAA said it is investigating the incident.

Zach Vasile

Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
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