Five people lost their lives on Sunday when an Amazon-branded cargo plane overran a runway at Miami International Airport, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The aircraft, a Boeing 767-300 operated by 21 Air, struck a van carrying an aircraft cleaning crew and then an SUV traveling outside the airport perimeter. Five others were injured in the incident.
Details of the Crash
NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy provided an update on Monday, stating that the plane first hit a white Ford van owned by Professional Ocean Service Corporation, a contract cleaning company for airlines. The van was inside the airport and had seven occupants. The aircraft then continued through a perimeter fence and struck a Toyota SUV on Northwest 67th Avenue, outside the airport. Homendy described the scene as “devastating,” noting that the van was “torn apart” and debris was scattered across the area.
Victims and Injuries
Homendy confirmed that five people died in the crash but did not specify whether they were in the van or the SUV. Five others were injured. The NTSB chair emphasized that the primary focus is on the “recovery of the victims,” and that the investigation and access to the aircraft can wait until that process is complete.
Aircraft and Flight Details
The Boeing 767-300 had flown from Cincinnati to Miami, then to San Juan, Puerto Rico, and was returning to Miami when the incident occurred. Upon landing, the aircraft overran the runway, struck navigational aids and equipment, hit the van, and then the SUV before coming to rest in a grassy area near a fence line where Tesla robotaxis were stationed. Two crew members were onboard; both were initially trapped but were later rescued. A cellphone video showed one crew member jumping from the plane after the crash.
Response and Investigation
Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel expressed condolences, stating, “We’re heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today’s incident at Miami International Airport. Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by this devastating loss.” Keith Winters, CEO of 21 Air, said the company is cooperating with federal investigators and offered condolences to the victims’ families.
The NTSB has recovered the flight data and cockpit voice recorders and will examine air traffic control communications and aircraft performance. Investigators expect to remain on scene for at least a week. Homendy noted that safety concerns, including fuel contamination, must be addressed before a thorough examination can proceed. The agency has asked the public to submit any relevant photos or videos.
Miami-Dade Fire Chief Raied Jadallah reported that the pilot and co-pilot were initially trapped inside the aircraft. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with more details expected to be released in the coming days.