FAA investigates drone strike on plane near JFK Airport
In a recent segment, FOX Business host Cheryl Casone spotlighted the growing threat posed by drones near airports. This concern has become all the more pressing following an incident where a JetBlue flight encountered a drone near JFK Airport, along with a close call involving a helicopter and a sizable toy airplane. A primary danger with drones is their lack of transponders, a feature that significantly hampers tracking efforts. In response, the FAA has implemented a public safety initiative, noting they receive approximately 100 reports each month relating to drone issues and are prepared to levy fines reaching as high as $100,000 for interference.
Meanwhile, a separate incident during the Independence Day celebrations adds to aviation safety concerns. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that a Delta Air Lines flight experienced an unexpected encounter with a firework while making its descent into Chicago Midway International Airport on July 4th.
According to an FAA statement, Delta Flight 1076, arriving from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, was struck by a fireworks mortar. Despite this unnerving incident, the aircraft landed safely at Midway around 8:30 p.m. local time on that Saturday evening, with no harm reported to passengers or crew.
The timeline provided by Delta Air Lines confirmed the flight’s departure from Atlanta at 7:51 p.m. ET and a smooth arrival at Chicago Midway at 8:33 p.m. CT. This timely coordination ensured any potential disruptions were quickly mitigated.
Accompanying this news, an image of a Delta Air Lines Airbus A319—similar to Delta Flight 1076 involved in the firework incident—is provided, capturing the type of aircraft affected on that day. This Airbus model’s robust design likely contributed to the safe outcome of the July 4th incident. (Image Source: Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
The Airbus A319 was carrying 52 passengers and six crew members. No injuries were reported, Delta said.
“The flight safely landed and taxied to the gate,” a Delta spokesperson said.
The crew did not declare an emergency, and the aircraft landed without incident, according to the airline. Delta said mechanics inspected the aircraft after it arrived at the gate and found no damage.
A sign welcomes travelers to Chicago Midway International Airport in a file photo. Federal officials said Delta Flight 1076 was struck by a fireworks mortar while descending into the airport on July 4. (Getty Images)
Chicago police told CBS Chicago the firework caused minor paint damage to the aircraft and that the plane was undergoing additional inspections to determine whether it sustained further damage. Delta, however, told News Media that mechanics found no damage during its post-flight inspection.
The FAA said it will investigate the incident.
An aerial view of Chicago Midway International Airport in a file photo. Federal officials said Delta Flight 1076 was struck by a fireworks mortar while descending into the airport on July 4. (Getty Images)
It remains unclear where the fireworks were launched from or whether authorities have identified those responsible. News Media has reached out to the Chicago Department of Aviation and the Chicago Police Department for additional information.
Delta said it will fully cooperate with the FAA and other authorities as they review what happened.