The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released information on a recent cargo plane incident at Miami International Airport. This Amazon jet, handled by 21 Air, overshot a runway and led to the tragic loss of five lives.
NTSB Findings on Pilot Communication
For nearly two minutes before the crash, one pilot repeatedly alerted the other about the aircraft’s excessive speed during landing. Despite these warnings, the co-pilot did not provide a consistent response. Following an unstable touchdown, the plane attempted a brief lift-off before fatally colliding with a van carrying cleaning company workers, all of whom perished.
The Amazon cargo plane ran approximately 1,300 feet past the runway end, impacting a van and later an SUV. These events unfolded as the airplane skidded across a public road and caught fire. Five individuals in the van lost their lives, and five were injured, with two remaining in critical condition.
Potential Pilot Actions and Flight Conditions
Former FAA official Mike O’Donnell highlighted several potential actions that could have mitigated the risk. The crew had options, such as extending spoilers, cutting throttles, or aborting the landing to attempt another approach. O’Donnell remarked, “You have plenty of time to slow down, plenty of time to say, let’s do a go-around at two minutes out.”
Flight data indicated the plane was unstable amid strong winds during its landing attempt. The pilots briefly disengaged brakes and increased throttle, as if preparing for another takeoff, but then ceased this effort after just four seconds. Automated cockpit warnings further illustrated concerns with terrain and descent speed, hinting at improper landing configuration.
Expert Opinions on Cockpit Dynamics
Several aviation experts questioned the pilots’ coordination and decision-making. Safety expert Steve Arroyo pointed to a lack of teamwork, suggesting preoccupation with landing detracted from addressing speed issues. Arroyo asked, “Where’s the coordination? Where’s the leadership here in terms of managing the flight deck?”
Mary Schiavo, former Inspector General of the Transportation Department, speculated on cockpit authority dynamics. She noted potential inexperience, suggesting the senior captain may have disregarded warnings from a less seasoned co-pilot.
Investigative Focus and Context
The 32-year-old Boeing 767 undergoing conversion for cargo in 2015, had an extensive operational history in passenger service prior. The NTSB will examine varied factors—including the plane’s ownership history, recent weather conditions, and maintenance records.
This incident joins another recent cargo plane crash, underscoring ongoing aviation safety concerns. In October, a UPS cargo plane at Muhammad Ali International Airport crashed, resulting in 15 fatalities, including three pilots and 12 ground personnel, with 23 additional injuries.
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