Amazon Cargo Plane Crash: 5 Dead in Ground Vehicles

An Amazon cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport killed five people on Sunday, September 6, 2026, when a Boeing 767 overran its runway and slammed into two vehicles on the ground. The five fatalities were occupants of a cleaning-company van and an airport-owned car, according to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Three other people were seriously injured and two more were hospitalized with minor injuries, while the two pilots survived the crash.

What Happened at Miami International Airport?

Amazon Air Flight 7598, a Boeing 767-300 operated by 21 Air LLC, was arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico, when it touched down on runway 30 at approximately 1:53 p.m. ET. The aircraft failed to stop, traveled about 1,300 feet past the runway, and struck a Ford Econoline van carrying seven people near the airport perimeter, as well as an SUV beyond the fence. The crash triggered a fire and forced a roughly three-hour ground stop. The incident disrupted Miami International Airport operations and closed all four runways temporarily.

Who Were the Victims on the Ground?

NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy confirmed that the five people killed were all occupants of the two vehicles hit by the aircraft. The van belonged to a cleaning company, Professional Ocean Service Corporation, and the car was owned by the airport itself. Homendy described the scene as utter devastation, saying the van was torn apart. It is difficult to see, and it will also have been very difficult for the emergency services, she said after inspecting the damage.

How Did the Crash Unfold?

Timeline of the Miami Runway Overrun

• 1:53 p.m. ET – Amazon Air Flight 7598 lands on runway 30 after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• Aircraft overruns the runway and travels roughly 400 meters (1,300 feet) beyond the threshold.
• The Boeing 767 strikes a cleaning-company van with seven people inside and an airport-owned SUV.
• Emergency crews from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue respond with about 200 personnel; five people die at the scene.
• NTSB investigators recover the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder.

NTSB Investigation and Possible Causes

The NTSB has launched a 32-person investigation into the Amazon cargo plane crash, examining crew training, air traffic control communications, aircraft components, and weather conditions. A key focus is whether the aircraft approached too fast or touched down too late, leaving insufficient runway to brake. Flight records show the plane was on its third trip of the day. The findings may shape aviation ground safety regulations for runway excursion prevention worldwide.

Impact on Airport Operations and Travel

The crash caused significant disruption at Miami International Airport, with a ground stop lasting about three hours. Two of the airport's four runways reopened on Monday, but travelers were urged to check flight status with airlines. American Airlines waived change fees for affected passengers. The incident highlights the risks when aircraft leave the runway and strike vehicles near the airfield perimeter. Travelers should monitor Miami airport flight delays before heading to the terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the Amazon cargo plane crash in Miami?

Investigators are still determining the cause, but early reports suggest the Boeing 767 may have landed too fast or too far down the runway, leaving insufficient distance to stop.

How many people died in the Miami runway overrun?

Five people died, all of whom were occupants of two vehicles struck by the aircraft on the ground. Five others were injured, three seriously.

Was the Amazon cargo plane carrying passengers?

No, the aircraft was a cargo plane with two pilots on board. Both pilots survived and are being interviewed by investigators.

Which company operated the Amazon cargo plane?

The Boeing 767-300 was operated by 21 Air LLC under contract for Amazon Air, flying as Amazon Air Flight 7598.