Authorities are investigating a cargo plane crash at Miami International Airport on September 6, 2026. An Amazon Prime Air plane overran the runway, colliding with vehicles and igniting a fire. Automatic warning signals were sounding in the cockpit moments before the crash. Despite alarms, the crew proceeded to land.
Flight data indicated the plane was traveling around 180 miles per hour when it landed unsuccessfully. The plane continued approximately 1300 feet beyond the runway, striking two vehicles. Tragically, five workers from a cleaning company died, and five others sustained injuries.
Ross Aimer, CEO of Aero Consulting Experts and a retired airline captain, criticized the crew’s performance. He emphasized that pilots should have attempted another landing approach, labeling the initial approach as unstable. Concerns about the safety culture at 21 Air, the operator of the flight, have emerged. Former employees had previously expressed worries about the company’s safety practices.
Amazon defends its practice of contracting with various carriers instead of operating its own fleet. An Amazon spokesperson stated this model is common in aviation. Safety remains a top concern for the company. The Miami crash is the third major accident involving a 767 flying for Amazon since 2019. Previous crashes occurred in 2019 and 2024, both linked to pilot error and aircraft issues.
Amazon works with nine air carriers, including major names like Alaska Airlines and Allegiant Air. However, smaller carriers like 21 Air are also included. These smaller airlines often serve as stepping stones for pilots aspiring to larger companies, which could mean less experienced crews. Investigative reports revealed minimal experience among the Miami crash crew.
Former 21 Air employees voiced concerns about the company’s safety protocols long before the Miami incident. Karl Seuring, a former pilot union president, feared such an accident. He claimed he faced termination for raising safety concerns, documented in a federal whistleblower lawsuit.
Both 21 Air and Amazon pledged cooperation with the investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The investigation aims to clarify the operational relationship between the two companies and outline safety protocols in place. While claims about 21 Air’s safety culture have surfaced, they reportedly predate Amazon’s current relationship with the company.
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