Amazon Cargo Plane Crash at Miami International Airport

On September 6, 2026, an Amazon cargo plane overran a runway at Miami International Airport, leading to a tragic accident. Five individuals lost their lives, and five more were injured when the aircraft collided with multiple vehicles. The incident caused a three-hour ground stop at the airport as emergency teams responded.

Emergency Response

The aircraft, operated by 21 Air from North Carolina, ended up in a nearby field after the mishap. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue acted rapidly, sending over 60 units to the site at the 2100 block of Northwest 42nd Avenue. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office also assisted. Five people sustained injuries. Three were transferred to a local trauma center in critical condition, while two others were taken to local hospitals.

Fire and Rescue Operations

MDFR Chief Ray Jadallah described the crash scene as complex. The plane was on fire and emitting heavy smoke upon first responders’ arrival. Crews used firefighting foam and units specialized for airport emergencies to extinguish the flames. They conducted search and rescue for the pilot and co-pilot and assessed other victims on site. MDFR personnel assisted in freeing several people trapped in vehicles.

Investigation Efforts

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board have initiated investigations. Officials have yet to confirm if those killed were on the aircraft or the ground. A fuel leak was reported at the crash site, but there was no threat to public safety. Residents were advised to avoid the area around 67th Avenue and 25th Street.

Company Statements

21 Air CEO Keith Winters expressed devastation over the accident, offering condolences to the families of those who died. He emphasized their focus on supporting affected individuals, cooperating with authorities, and providing accurate information.

Amazon also responded with deep sympathy for those impacted. Kelly Nantel, an Amazon spokesperson, affirmed the company’s commitment to work with local authorities and prioritize the well-being of everyone involved. Amazon extended heartfelt sympathies to the victims’ families.

Flight Operations at Miami International

The FAA’s Air Traffic Control System Command Center had issued a ground stop at 2:30 p.m., which lasted for about three hours. Two of the airport’s runways reopened, but there were still significant delays. The crash involved a Boeing 767-300 that departed from San Juan, Puerto Rico. This aircraft, 32 years old, was converted from a passenger to a cargo plane in 2015.

Sean Duffy, the U.S. Department of Transportation’s secretary, advised travelers about potential delays and cancellations in a statement shared on X.