Deadly Miami Cargo Plane Crash: Brake Systems Fails Analysis

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, officials confirmed that critical braking systems did not deploy during Sunday’s tragic plane crash at Miami International Airport. An Amazon cargo jet, a Prime Air Boeing 767, overran the runway and collided with two vehicles, resulting in five fatalities.

Technical Analysis

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), although the aircraft’s wheel brakes were applied, there was no data showing the deployment of speed brakes or thrust reversers. Chihoon Shin, the lead NTSB investigator, highlighted that the recorded information lacked any indication of these systems being activated.

Preliminary Investigation

Shin stated that investigators aim to conduct interviews with the pilots involved to gather more details. However, officials are not ready to speculate on the expected procedures during landing. Shin emphasized, “When we analyze the full list of parameters, we’ll have a better understanding of the aircraft’s performance during this landing. Was it normal? Was it not? And what was working and what was not.”

Pilot Information

Although the pilots’ identities remain undisclosed, NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy provided information about their flight experience. The captain, aged 55, had logged 7,145 flight hours, as per his Class 1 medical certificate from March 31, 2026. The first officer, aged 37, had 2,655 flight hours, confirmed by his medical certificate dated April 13, 2026.

Cargo Details

Officials confirmed the absence of hazardous materials on board the aircraft. The cargo mainly comprised 32,222 pounds of contact lenses and a flight kit. This was verified in the aftermath of the crash.

Casualty and Damage Report

The devastating accident led to the deaths of five individuals, with five more injured. Seven victims were occupants in a van crushed within airport premises. The plane continued through the airport fence, colliding with another civilian vehicle before halting near a parking area.