At least five people have been killed and five others injured after an Amazon cargo aircraft overshot a runway while landing at Miami International Airport in Florida, striking several vehicles before catching fire.
The incident occurred at about 2pm local time on Sunday, September 6, after the Boeing 767-300 cargo aircraft arrived from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The plane was operated by 21 Air on behalf of Amazon Prime Air.
According to officials, the aircraft ran beyond the end of the runway and crossed into an area where it collided with multiple vehicles. The impact sparked a fire, sending thick smoke into the air and prompting a major emergency response.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Chief Ray Jadallah said five people died in the crash, while another five were injured. Three of the injured were taken to trauma centres in critical condition, while two others were transported to hospitals for treatment.
Emergency crews also had to rescue people who became trapped inside vehicles struck by the aircraft. Firefighters carried out a complex search and rescue operation while battling the flames and dealing with a fuel leak at the crash site.
The condition of the aircraft’s pilot and co-pilot was not immediately made clear. Officials said rescue teams were involved in efforts to reach the cockpit, but authorities had not confirmed whether the crew members were among those killed or injured.
The crash brought operations at Miami International Airport to a temporary halt, with authorities imposing a ground stop while emergency crews responded. Some runways were later reopened, although significant delays were reported.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have launched investigations into the incident.
CNN reported that a review of air traffic control communications showed the pilots did not declare an emergency before landing. Investigators are expected to examine several factors, including the aircraft’s approach and landing, weather conditions and why it was unable to stop within the runway area.
The aircraft, a Boeing 767-300, was about 32 years old and had previously operated as a passenger aircraft before being converted for cargo operations.
Amazon confirmed that one of its aircraft was involved in the crash and said its priority was the safety and care of those affected. The company also said it would cooperate fully with the investigation.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of the victims or determined the precise cause of the crash.
The investigation remains ongoing.
