MIAMI — A major aviation emergency unfolded at Miami International Airport on Sunday after an Amazon Air cargo aircraft crashed while landing, killing at least five people and leaving five others injured, authorities said.
The Boeing 767-300, operating as Prime Air Flight 7598 and flown by contract carrier 21 Air, overran a runway shortly before 2 p.m. after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The aircraft continued beyond the runway, struck several vehicles on the ground and erupted in flames before coming to rest in an area near the airport.
Five people were confirmed dead in the crash, while five others were injured. Three of those injured were reported to be in critical condition, while two others were transported to hospitals with less serious injuries. Authorities had not immediately determined whether the fatalities were passengers or crew members aboard the aircraft or people on the ground.
🚨 Massive Emergency Response
The crash triggered a large-scale emergency operation as firefighters and rescue crews battled flames, heavy smoke and a reported fuel leak.
More than 60 Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units responded to the scene. Emergency officials said several people became trapped inside vehicles struck by the aircraft and required specialized rescue operations. The pilot and co-pilot were also initially trapped inside the cockpit.
Authorities urged residents and motorists to avoid the area while crews secured the crash site, treated victims and worked to contain the fuel leak.
The accident also caused major disruptions at one of the country’s busiest airports. The Federal Aviation Administration imposed a temporary ground stop, while airport operations were suspended for several hours. Travelers experienced delays and cancellations as officials worked to restore normal operations.
🔎 Investigation Underway
The cause of the crash remains unknown. The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration have launched investigations into the accident.
Investigators are expected to examine the aircraft’s approach, landing conditions, weather and wind, runway conditions, mechanical systems and other factors that could explain why the plane overran the runway.
The aircraft, a roughly 32-year-old Boeing 767, had previously served as a passenger aircraft before being converted for cargo operations. It was being operated by 21 Air on behalf of Amazon Air.
Amazon confirmed that an aircraft operating for Amazon Air was involved and said the company is cooperating with authorities.
Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel said the company’s immediate focus was the safety and care of those affected, while offering condolences to the victims’ families.
The investigation is expected to continue as authorities examine the wreckage, document the scene and interview witnesses to determine exactly what caused the deadly crash.
