Amazon cargo plane crash victims were in vehicles that were hit, NTSB says
Key Points:
- An Amazon Air Boeing 767 cargo plane overshot runway 30 at Miami International Airport, crashing into two vehicles and bursting into flames, resulting in five fatalities—all occupants of the vehicles—and at least five injuries.
- The plane, operated by 21 Air LLC on behalf of Amazon, traveled approximately 1,300 feet beyond the runway, striking navigational aids, a van inside the airport, and a car outside before coming to rest near Tesla robotaxis.
- The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders and has deployed 32 investigators to analyze factors including human performance, aircraft systems, and airport safety measures such as the potential use of an Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS).
- Witnesses described the scene as devastating, with quick emergency response praised for its 30-second arrival time; the pilot was reported to have minor injuries and was seen contacting his wife shortly after the crash.
- The investigation will also explore the contractual relationship between Amazon and 21 Air, the aircraft's age and maintenance history, and broader issues related to runway excursions, with further updates expected as the NTSB continues its work.