The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has revealed crucial details about the Amazon cargo jet that overran the runway at Miami International Airport. On Sunday, the aircraft ran off the runway, hit two vehicles, crossed a public road, and tragically resulted in five fatalities.
Leading the investigation, NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy, along with other investigators, now has a clearer picture of the chaotic sequence that unfolded before the crash.
Initial Findings
According to the timeline shared by the NTSB late Tuesday, pilots had not fully controlled the aircraft upon landing. They temporarily considered aborting the landing. This indecision may have cost hundreds of feet of runway and precious seconds. Aviation experts highlight the unusual decision sequence where pilots attempted to land, considered a go-around, and then resumed landing.
“You either land or go around. Attempting both is generally reserved for mechanical issues,” explained Steven Arroyo, a retired United Airlines pilot.
Pending Investigation Outcomes
The forthcoming release of the cockpit voice recorder transcript on Wednesday will likely provide further insights. NTSB is scheduled to interview the pilots to ascertain more details.
Chihoon Shin, the lead crash investigator, detailed the airplane’s final 30 seconds captured by the flight data recorder. These devices cease operation when the plane loses its electric power supply during such events.
