Flights have been cancelled at Miami International Airport after an Amazon cargo plane overshot the runway, killing five people.
Five people have also been injured in the incident which happened just before 2pm local time yesterday (September 6). The victims have not been identified and an investigation is under way.
The Boeing 767-300 aircraft, operated by 21Air for Amazon, crashed on arrival from San Juan, Puerto Rico, striking several vehicles.
American Airlines is among the carriers experiencing disruption, cancelling flights including domestic departures to New York, Boston and Washington and arrivals from Sao Paolo, Los Angeles and St Louis.
Other airlines likely impacted include Turkish Airlines, Delta, Aeromexico, Qatar, and Cathay Pacific. The airport has advised passengers to check directly with their carrier before travelling.
A statement on Miami International Airport’s website said: “Earlier today, Prime Air Flight 7598 overran Miami International Airport’s diagonal runway. Two of our four runways are currently open, but we are still experiencing impacts from this incident. Passengers with flights scheduled today should check directly with their airline for flight status updates before heading to the airport.”
21Air CEO Keith Winters said: “We are devastated by the accident involving one of our aircraft in Miami today.
“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.
“We are cooperating fully with the National Transportation Safety Board, the Federal Aviation Administration, and local authorities. The circumstances of the accident are under investigation.”
An Amazon spokesperson said: “We’re working closely with local authorities and officials to learn more and will cooperate fully with any investigation.”
