A tragic incident occurred at Miami International Airport on Sunday, September 6, 2026, when an Amazon Air cargo plane crashed after overrunning a runway, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The aircraft, identified as a Boeing 767-300, operated by 21 Air, struck several vehicles on the ground before igniting into flames, leading to a significant emergency response.
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According to reports from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and local authorities, the mishap took place shortly after 2 p.m. A full ground stop was promptly issued at Miami International Airport, halting all incoming and outgoing flights due to safety concerns and the ongoing rescue efforts. The crash resulted in five fatalities and left an additional five individuals requiring hospital treatment, including two pilots.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue units swiftly arrived at the scene, encountering a flaming aircraft engulfed in smoke and fire. Over 60 firefighters were deployed to manage the situation, aiming to extinguish the fire and assist the injured. Dramatic footage captured by local media showcased the wreckage, with the plane settled nose-down in grass at the airport’s perimeter.
In an official statement regarding the incident, Miami International Airport confirmed that the cargo flight, designated Prime Air Flight 7598, had lost control and overrun the diagonal runway at the northwest end of the airport. Consequently, operations were severely disrupted, with delays and cancellations affecting numerous travellers.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced on social media that a complete ground stop had been ordered, highlighting the gravity of the situation as first responders worked extensively to assess and manage the aftermath of the crash. By 3 p.m., all runways and taxiways at the airport had been closed, causing a ripple effect of travel disruptions.
The ill-fated flight had originated from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, illustrating the global nature of cargo operations conducted by Amazon. As for the investigation into the incident, the FAA has taken charge, with an inquiry underway to determine the specific causes and contributing factors that led to the crash.
An Amazon spokesperson, Kelly Nantel, addressed the situation in a statement, confirming the incident and expressing the company’s commitment to safety and the well-being of those affected. Nantel reassured the public that the corporate team is cooperating with local authorities to gather all necessary information.
In light of the incident, airport officials urged passengers to check in with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight statuses and advised travellers to expect considerable delays and potential cancellations. Duffy reiterated the importance of vigilance and caution for those travelling in the vicinity of the airport.
As members of the community mourn the loss of life and support those who have been injured, questions surrounding the safety protocols and operational procedures for cargo flights, particularly in adverse conditions, are expected to come under scrutiny as the FAA investigation unfolds. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in aviation and the continuing need for rigorous safety practices across the industry.