7 September 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : At least five people were killed and five others injured after an Amazon cargo plane overran a runway while landing at Miami International Airport on Sunday, September 6, striking several vehicles and catching fire. Three of the injured were reported to be in critical condition.
Amazon Cargo Plane Overshoots Runway
The aircraft was Prime Air Flight 7598, a Boeing 767-300 freighter operated by 21 Air on behalf of Amazon.
The plane arrived in Miami from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and overran the runway at around 2 p.m. local time. It crossed a nearby road and struck multiple vehicles before coming to a stop in an area beyond the runway.
Five People Killed, Five Injured
Miami-Dade County officials confirmed five fatalities and five injuries following the crash.
Three of those injured were in critical condition, while two others were taken to hospital with less serious injuries. Authorities have not yet publicly identified the people who died.
The pilot and co-pilot were reportedly trapped inside the aircraft after the crash, while at least two people were also trapped inside vehicles hit by the plane.
Aircraft Caught Fire
The crash triggered a major emergency response after the aircraft caught fire and sent thick black smoke into the sky.
More than 60 fire-rescue units and over 200 emergency personnel responded to the scene. Firefighters also had to deal with a fuel leak during rescue and firefighting operations.
Weather Conditions Being Examined
The crash occurred during a period of thunderstorms and gusty winds in the Miami area.
Weather conditions could have been a factor, but authorities have not determined the cause of the crash. Investigators will examine weather, aircraft performance, runway conditions, crew actions and other possible factors.
NTSB Leads Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the accident, with a team led by Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy being sent to Miami.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is also investigating the incident. Boeing and 21 Air have said they will assist investigators.
Miami Airport Operations Disrupted
The crash caused a major disruption at one of the busiest airports in the United States.
Authorities imposed a ground stop and temporarily closed airport runways and taxiways while emergency crews responded. More than 160 flights were cancelled and nearly 325 delayed, with some flights redirected to other airports.
Amazon Expresses Condolences
Amazon said it was devastated by the loss of life and that its priority was supporting those affected.
The company said it was working with local authorities and officials to understand what happened and was cooperating with the investigation.
Boeing 767 Had Long Service History
The aircraft involved was around 32 years old. It had originally operated as a passenger aircraft before being converted into a freighter.
The plane had been part of Amazon’s cargo network and was operated by 21 Air.
Cause of Crash Remains Unknown
Investigators have not yet established why the aircraft failed to stop within the runway area.
Officials are expected to examine flight data, cockpit information, aircraft maintenance records, weather conditions and runway circumstances as they work to determine the cause.