Delta flight narrowly avoids firework blast during Chicago 250th-anniversary celebrations

A Delta Airlines flight carrying 52 passengers and six crew was hit by a fireworks shell while preparing to land at Chicago Midway International Airport on Saturday night.

The flight, from Atlanta’s Hartsfield‑Jackson Airport to Midway, “made contact with a firework while on descent,” according to a Delta spokesperson. It safely landed and taxied to the gate, with no injuries and only minor paint damage reported.

The incident occurred amid nationwide celebrations of the United States’ 250th anniversary, with millions of fireworks set off across the country. Air‑traffic controllers warned of fireworks near the approach and the Chicago Police Department said the object was “unknown” but had caused only superficial damage.

The FAA confirmed the encounter took place around 20:30 CDT, as recorded by a pilot who reported feeling a “big bang” at approximately 200 ft (61 m). Investigators noted the firework likely originated from homes along the airport’s approach path.

Post‑landing, the Airbus A319 was inspected with no structural damage found. The day’s celebrations included a 40‑minute fireworks show by the National Park Service at the Washington National Mall, during which flights at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport were suspended.

This event highlights the ongoing risks of unauthorized fireworks near airports, especially during public celebrations. The FAA, Delta and city officials will continue to monitor the situation and assess any potential actions to prevent similar incidents.