Amazon Cargo Plane Crash Investigation at Miami Airport

MIAMI—Flight Data Analysis

Flight data indicates that an Amazon cargo plane attempted to abort an unsteady landing at Miami International Airport. It then collided with a van, resulting in the tragic deaths of five people, authorities reported. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigators are set to interview the pilot and co-pilot to understand the situation better.

Investigation Insights

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy noted that investigators are examining flight data and cockpit recordings to determine events leading to the crash. The pilot and co-pilot seemed to attempt a go-around but aborted it, opting to halt the jet. Despite conditions, thrust reversers were reportedly never engaged. Sadly, five individuals inside a van used for airport crew transport lost their lives. Miami-Dade County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz confirmed that the pilot and co-pilot were released from the hospital, though two other individuals remain critically injured, with another stable.

Crash Details and Aviation Expert Insights

The Amazon jet overshot the runway by roughly 1,300 feet during landing in stormy conditions. Aviation expert and former FAA official Mike O’Donnell noted the unstable nature of landing on the nose and right landing gear. He highlighted potential hesitations in executing a go-around, possibly due to insufficient runway. Interviews with the pilots are expected to provide more clarity.

Potential disagreements between pilots, as suggested by aviation attorney Mary Schiavo, and adverse weather conditions, including a tailwind, are factors needing examination. Additionally, the NTSB is investigating whether air traffic controllers could have adjusted the runway approach to counter the wind.

Fatalities and Company Response

Amazon extended sympathies in a statement, emphasizing cooperation with investigations. Those killed were employees of Professional Ocean Service Corp., a plane cleaning company. The company expressed condolences, affirming deep familial bonds with its staff.

Safety Concerns Raised

Homendy expressed concerns about airport worker safety, highlighting the unexpected nature of such an incident occurring during routine tasks like van transport across the airport. Discussions continue about Miami’s runway safety systems and whether current FAA requirements suffice in preventing runaway aircraft.

NTSB and Upcoming Findings

While some airports have specialized systems to stop high-speed jets, Miami lacks these installations. The NTSB aims to identify crash causes and formulate preventative recommendations in their final report, which might take over a year to complete. Thousands of runway excursions have occurred, prompting ongoing safety evaluations.

Additional Context on the Aircraft

The flight was operated by 21 Air, with the Boeing 767 serving as a converted cargo plane since 2015. Previously, it had been a passenger aircraft for various airlines abroad.

Operational Impact and Recovery Efforts

The NTSB released one runway back to Miami International Airport, restoring some operational capacity. Consequently, over 225 flights were canceled, and hundreds faced delays, but conditions are improving. Authorities aim to reopen remaining runways post-investigation.