Investigators are currently scrutinising the actions of the pilots involved in a tragic crash of an Amazon cargo plane at Miami International Airport, which resulted in the deaths of five individuals. This serious incident occurred on September 6, 2026, and has prompted significant attention from various aviation safety authorities.
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At a press conference on September 7, National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy provided insights into the cockpit’s final moments before the accident. The NTSB is now focusing its investigation on what contributed to the Boeing 767-33A overshooting the runway. Preliminary findings suggest that the plane’s cockpit voice recorder captured over two hours of audio, which will be critical for understanding the events leading up to the crash.
A review of the flight data indicates that during the final seconds of approach, the pilots engaged in several adjustments, altering both the braking and engine power. According to details released by NTSB investigator Chihoon Shin, the aircraft initially touched down while travelling at a speed of 158 knots (approximately 181 mph). Seconds later, as the plane continued to descend, the pilots began braking at a speed of 146 knots (about 168 mph), and the left landing gear made contact with the runway at 134 knots (around 154 mph).
In a concerning series of actions, the pilots released the brakes and increased engine power, actions which typically suggest an attempt to execute a go-around—an aborted landing. However, shortly after this manoeuvre, they reduced power and re-engaged the brakes. Investigators confirmed that there were “no indications” of speed brakes or thrust reversers being deployed during the landing.
The incident took place around 1:53 p.m. local time when Flight 7598, operated by 21 Air LLC, failed to stop on Runway 30 and proceeded to overrun the tarmac, ultimately colliding with multiple vehicles. The aircraft impacted navigational equipment before crashing into a white Ford Econoline van occupied by seven people, subsequently traversing a perimeter fence and colliding with a Toyota Corolla.
Tragically, five people in the vehicles struck by the cargo plane lost their lives. The deceased were identified as Rolando Aleman, 55; Yoel Rodriguez Naranjo, 53; Julio C. Pineda, 75; Carlos Acosta Fajardo, 53; and Javierkys Reyes Quevedo, 47. The loss of life has been a devastating blow to the families involved, with officials expressing their condolences to those affected by this harrowing accident.
On a more positive note, the two pilots aboard the cargo plane survived the crash. According to statements made by Chairwoman Homendy, the captain, aged 55, possesses over 7,145 hours of flight experience, and first officer, 37, has logged 2,655 hours. Both received their type ratings for the Boeing 767 in 2026 and 2025, respectively.
The incident has evoked strong reactions from local residents and witnesses. One bystander, Olvin Henriquez, filmed the aftermath and described the chaotic scene as the plane engulfed in flames. He expressed terror at the thought of what could have happened had his family been closer to the site of the crash, illuminating the potential for an even greater tragedy.
In light of the incident, both Amazon and 21 Air released statements expressing their condolences for those impacted by the crash. Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel conveyed their sympathies to the families and indicated that the company is actively working with local officials and first responders to provide support to the community.
The crash remains under thorough investigation by both the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). At this early stage, the precise cause of why the aircraft overran the runway has yet to be determined, and investigators are keen to complete their interviews with the pilots and analyse the cockpit audio to gather further insights.
As the investigation unfolds, the priority remains to uncover the reasons behind this tragic accident and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. The focus will be on gathering as much information as possible to ascertain what went wrong in the moments leading up to the crash and to provide closure to the families of the victims.