On September 7, 2026, an Amazon cargo plane incident at Miami International Airport led to five fatalities and several injuries. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is actively investigating the unfortunate event.
Details of the Crash
The Amazon Air Flight 7598, a Boeing 767-33 Alpha managed by 21 Air LLC, overran runway 30 after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The plane hit a 2012 Ford Econoline van inside the airport, carrying seven people, and then collided with a Toyota Corolla Cross LE outside the airport before halting near Tesla robotaxis. All fatalities occurred in these two vehicles.
Victims and Response
Five individuals were pronounced dead, while at least five others sustained injuries, with three of them in critical condition at Jackson’s Ryder Trauma Center. First responders received commendation for their swift action, reaching the scene within 30 seconds.
Investigation Progress
The NTSB recovered the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which are crucial for understanding the event. Investigators are on-site, analyzing potential factors involving human performance, airplane systems, and more. The crash occurred after the aircraft passed about 1,300 feet beyond the paved runway.
Potential Factors Under Review
Investigators are examining the absence of an Engineered Materials Arresting System (EMAS), a safety feature often used to stop planes that overrun runways. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy noted that although not mandatory, its presence might have altered the outcome of this accident.
Contractual and Historical Context
The contractual relationship between Amazon and 21 Air, the plane’s age, and its ownership history since its manufacture in 1994 are also under scrutiny.
Recommendations and Future Prevention
Homendy emphasized the need for implementing safety recommendations to prevent similar incidents, pointing out the NTSB’s extensive experience with runway excursions.
The NTSB will continue to gather evidence and update the public. They invited individuals with relevant footage or photos to contribute via [email protected].