The accident occurred just over 12 hours ago, according to the latest reports. Local authorities confirmed five fatalities and three severe injuries. Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel said the company is "heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today's incident at Miami International Airport." The aircraft was leased by 21Air, a company that provides cargo planes and crew. 21Air CEO Keith Winters expressed devastation, saying, "Our deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives. Our immediate priorities are supporting those affected, assisting the authorities, and ensuring that accurate information is communicated as it becomes available."
Video footage purportedly from the scene shows dark storm clouds and rain, suggesting gusty conditions may have contributed to the runway overrun. The plane, a 767 built in 1994, had a long history of service with carriers in Belgium, Vietnam, Spain, Kenya, and Russia before being acquired by freight airline Atlas in 2015 and converted from passenger to cargo configuration. Converting older passenger jets to freighters is common in the cargo industry, as the low purchase price offsets higher maintenance and operating costs. All commercial aircraft, however, must meet strict airworthiness requirements.
This is the second major crash involving a 767 leased by Amazon, following a 2019 incident in which a plane experienced an unexpected nose-dive. Investigators have only just begun their work, and further details on the cause of the crash are expected to emerge in the coming days.