An Amazon cargo plane veered off the runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday, resulting in at least five fatalities and five injuries. Authorities reported that the aircraft collided with vehicles and caught fire.
The aircraft overran the runway around 2 p.m. ET following its arrival from San Juan, Puerto Rico. It then crossed a road used by warehouse workers and nearby businesses surrounding the airport.
Miami-Dade County officials reported at a news conference that five people died, three were critically injured, and two others were hospitalized with less severe injuries.
Kelly Nantel, an Amazon spokesperson, said in a statement: “We’re heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today’s incident at Miami International Airport. Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by this devastating loss.
The airplane, which was operated by 21 Air, was attempting to land when this incident occurred. We’re working closely with local authorities and officials to learn more and will cooperate fully with any investigation.”
“We are devastated by the accident involving one of our aircraft in Miami today. Our deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives,” Keith Winters, CEO of 21 Air, said in a statement.
“We are cooperating fully with the National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration, and local authorities. The circumstances of the accident are under investigation.”
21 Air is an all-cargo carrier headquartered in North Carolina, with a 24/7 operations center in Miami that dispatches Boeing 767 aircraft for companies like Amazon and DHL.
Amazon Air operates a fleet of more than 100 cargo aircraft, including Boeing 737s, 767s, and Airbus A330S.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
