.jpg "HCPH-Riverside-0708-1870×125-Spa (1)")
An Amazon cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport killed at least five people and injured five others Sunday. Federal investigators are examining why the Boeing 767 overran a runway, struck vehicles and caught fire.
The crash occurred around 2 p.m. Sept. 6 as 21 Air Flight 7598 landed after traveling from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The aircraft was operating for Amazon Air, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Amazon Cargo Plane Crash Leaves Five Injured
The cargo jet crossed a perimeter road near warehouses and other businesses surrounding the airport. It struck several vehicles before stopping near two semitrucks.
Miami-Dade County officials reported five deaths. Three injured people remained in critical condition, while two others suffered less severe injuries.
Authorities had not publicly identified the victims as of Monday morning. They also had not confirmed whether those killed were aboard the plane or inside vehicles.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Chief Ray Jadallah said the pilot and copilot were trapped in the cockpit. Other people were trapped inside vehicles. Emergency crews also rescued a person pinned beneath a vehicle, according to sources.
About 200 emergency personnel responded to the scene. Firefighters used specialized airport equipment and foam to control flames around the aircraft’s engine compartment.
Crews also worked to contain leaking fuel after extinguishing the main fire.
NTSB Investigates Runway Overrun
The National Transportation Safety Board sent a team to Miami led by Chair Jennifer Homendy. The FAA is also investigating.
No official cause has been announced. Investigators are expected to review the aircraft’s touchdown point, speed, braking systems and maintenance history.
Video from the landing appears to show the plane remaining above the runway longer than expected. However, investigators have not determined whether the aircraft landed too far down the runway.
Weather will also form part of the investigation. Thunderstorms were present in the area, with wind gusts reaching about 30 mph.
The aircraft was a 32-year-old Boeing 767-300. It originally carried passengers before its conversion into a cargo plane in 2015. North Carolina-based 21 Air operated the flight under contract for Amazon.
Amazon said it was heartbroken by the loss of life and was cooperating with authorities.
Miami Airport Delays Continue Monday
The crash forced Miami International Airport to close all runways and taxiways Sunday afternoon. Officials later lifted the ground stop after roughly three hours.
Two of the airport’s four runways had reopened by Monday morning. However, delays and cancellations continued as airlines worked through disrupted schedules, CBS Miami reported.
More than 160 flights were canceled Sunday, while nearly 325 experienced delays. Travelers should check directly with their airlines before arriving at the airport.
Officials asked the public to avoid the crash area while investigators examine the wreckage. Additional information about the victims, survivors and cause is expected as the federal investigation continues.