Delta flight struck by fireworks mortar during approach to Chicago Midway

A Delta Air Lines Airbus A319 descending toward Midway International Airport on Saturday night was struck by a fireworks mortar, the Federal Aviation Administration said. The incident occurred at about 8:30 p.m. local time as the aircraft, operating as Delta Flight 1076 from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, was on final approach.

Air traffic control recordings captured the crew hearing a loud noise and hoping it was a mortar that detonated beneath the plane. Chicago police were alerted, and the aircraft subsequently landed without further incident and taxied to the gate.

Police reported that the explosion caused only minor paint damage. The airline said the plane was inspected the following day to confirm there was no structural damage. The flight carried 52 passengers and six crew members, and no one was injured. Further investigation of the fireworks incident has been referred to the FBI.