Fatal Cargo Plane Crash at Miami International Airport

In Miami, a tragic accident unfolded at Miami International Airport when at least five individuals lost their lives following a runway overrun by an Amazon cargo plane. The mishap resulted in five others sustaining injuries, leading to a three-hour ground stop as emergency personnel responded.

The Prime Air plane, operated by North Carolina-based 21 Air, veered off one of the airport’s runways, eventually halting in an adjacent field, according to officials’ statements during a news conference. The Miami-Dade Fire Rescue reported the plane crashing into several vehicles on Northwest 42nd Avenue, deploying over 60 units to address the incident. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office also participated in the response.

Both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board have initiated investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

21 Air expressed profound sorrow over the incident. CEO Keith Winters stated, “We are devastated by the accident involving one of our aircraft.” He conveyed condolences to families and loved ones of the deceased, emphasizing their commitment to supporting those impacted and cooperating with authorities.

On the scene, MDFR firefighters encountered a burning aircraft discharging heavy smoke. Chief Ray Jadallah described the scenario as complex, requiring the use of foam and specialized firefighting equipment to tackle the flames. Firefighters engaged in search and rescue efforts for the pilot and co-pilot, and assessed injuries across the site.

The conditions of the plane crew were not disclosed, and authorities remain uncertain if the deceased individuals were aboard the plane or were among those on the ground. Several trapped individuals required extraction using specialized rescue techniques.

MDFR reported an active fuel leak from the aircraft, promptly undertaking measures to manage it. Residents and motorists were advised to avoid nearby areas by Commissioner Natalie Milian Orbis. Officials found no current threat to public safety.

Amazon acknowledged involvement in the crash, expressing heartbreak over the loss of five lives and extending sympathies to those affected. The company pledged full cooperation with investigative efforts.

The FAA’s Air Traffic Control System Command Center enacted the ground stop at approximately 2:30 p.m. ET. After three hours, two runways reopened; however, delays persisted, affecting inbound flights for an average of six and a half hours.

The involved aircraft was a Boeing 767-300, aged 32 years, initially a passenger plane before its conversion to cargo use in 2015. It had departed San Juan, Puerto Rico, prior to the crash.

Following the incident, Sean Duffy, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation, issued a public advisory on X concerning potential travel disruptions such as delays and cancellations.