An Amazon Air cargo plane operating for the e-commerce giant crashed while landing at Miami International Airport on Sunday, killing at least five people and injuring five others.
The Boeing 767-300, flown by contract carrier 21 Air as Prime Air Flight 7598, overran a runway shortly before 2 p.m. after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The aircraft crossed beyond the runway, struck multiple vehicles on the ground and caught fire before stopping in an area adjacent to the airport.
What Happened at the Crash Scene
The incident triggered a major emergency response as more than 60 Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units descended on the scene. Firefighters worked through heavy smoke, flames and a reported fuel leak to rescue people trapped inside vehicles and the aircraft’s cockpit.
Three of the five injured were reported in critical condition, while two others sustained less severe injuries. Authorities had not immediately identified whether the five victims were aboard the aircraft or on the ground.
The crash temporarily halted operations at one of the nation’s busiest airports. The Federal Aviation Administration imposed a ground stop while emergency responders assessed the scene, causing significant flight delays and cancellations.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration launched investigations into the crash. Authorities said they would examine the aircraft’s approach and landing, weather and wind conditions, runway conditions, mechanical systems and the touchdown point.
Officials cautioned that determining the cause remains premature. The 32-year-old Boeing 767 had previously operated as a passenger aircraft before being converted for cargo service.
Amazon’s Response
Amazon confirmed an aircraft operating for Amazon Air was involved and said the company was working closely with authorities.
