Representative image (Photo: Reuters)
A Delta Air Lines plane was apparently hit by fireworks while landing at Chicago Midway International Airport during Fourth of July celebrations, prompting a federal investigation into the incident.According to the AP, the pilot of Delta Flight 1076 notified air traffic controllers of the incident moments before landing Saturday evening, saying the plane experienced a strong impact while flying at a low altitude.
The pilot reported a “big explosion” during landing
“The fireworks just hit our plane,” the pilot told controllers, according to air traffic control audio.The pilot added: “We just hope it was just a mortar shell that exploded underneath, but we definitely felt a big explosion.”The plane was descending at an altitude of about 200 to 250 feet when the accident occurred.The pilot said the crew hoped the noise was caused by “just a mortar shell that exploded,” referring to the launch tube used for aerial fireworks.Air traffic controllers responded by saying there were “multiple reports” of similar incidents and ordered the crew to proceed to the gate for inspection.The incident also led to a striking exchange with another incoming plane.
According to CNN, as a Southwest Airlines flight approached Midway Airport, an air traffic controller warned the crew, “Welcome to the war zone.”“That’s reassuring,” the Southwest pilot replied.Observers also said city officials were informed of the potential dangers posed by fireworks near arriving and departing aircraft.
The plane landed safely, and no damage was found
Delta Flight 1076, an Airbus A319 from Atlanta with 52 passengers and six crew members on board, landed safely at Chicago Midway shortly after 8:30 p.m. local time.Delta said no injuries were reported.After landing, airline mechanics examined the plane and found no damage, the Associated Press reported.The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has launched an investigation into the reported fireworks strike.“Delta Airlines Flight 1076 landed safely at Chicago Midway International Airport at approximately 8:30 p.m. local time on Saturday, July 4,” the FAA said in a statement.The agency asked to direct further questions to the local authorities and the airline.It remains unclear whether other planes were bombed with fireworks during the celebrations.However, air traffic controllers noted “multiple reports” of similar encounters, and noted that Chicago city officials had been notified of the potential danger.
