21 Air operated an Boeing 767-300 cargo aircraft for Amazon Prime Air that overshot the runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday, arriving from San JuanPuerto Rico and struck vehicles beyond the runway, killing five people and injuring others.
Last update: September 8, 2026. The event interrupted operations at one of the region’s busiest airports and triggered coordinated responses from local emergency services and federal investigators, underscoring immediate safety and recovery priorities at the scene.
Context and immediate significance
The accident occurred shortly before 14:00 local time when the Boeing 767-300 operated by 21 Air arrived from San JuanPuerto Rico and overran the runway by approximately 1,300ft (394m) coming to rest after striking airport equipment and multiple vehicles. The overrun forced a full ground stop at Miami International closed runways and taxiways and produced widespread cancellations and delays on Sunday and into Monday.
The incident drew immediate attention from the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Authority both of which dispatched investigative teams. Authorities emphasized that recovery of victims and scene safety remained top priorities while investigators began evidence collection and data recovery.
Scene, casualties and emergency response
The aircraft struck a white van carrying seven people and a Toyota Corolla with three passengers after breaching airport fencing and hitting navigational aids. Dade Fire Rescue units described the crash scene as complex and chaotic; Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Chief Raied Jadallah noted extensive vehicle entrapments and fire. More than 60 units from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue responded, working to extinguish fires, free trapped occupants and stabilize survivors.
Dade Sheriff Office and local law enforcement implemented street closures and a hotline for family members. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava confirmed that five people were killed and five were injured, with three of the injured reported in critical condition and several others transported to local hospitals, including the two crew members.
Investigation, data recovery and operational issues
The NTSB recovered the aircraft’s flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder, which were sent to their headquarters for analysis. Jennifer Homendy, chairwoman of the National Transportation Safety Board described the scene: “It’s hard to see, and I’m sure very difficult for the first responders as well.” Investigators listed primary lines of inquiry that include crew training and experience, flight history, aircraft performance, radar and weather data, and the presence or absence of runway safety features.
Homendy said the role of an engineered materials arresting system, or EMAS at the runway end will be a “key” focus for the investigation. She also said investigators had recovered both recorders and appealed to the public for any photographs or video that may assist the probe. Homendy added, “That’s why we’re here – to prevent the next tragedy.” The Federal Aviation Authority confirmed the aircraft overran the runway after landing and is cooperating with the ongoing inquiry.
Weather, aircraft path and company responses
Preliminary analysis indicated an active thunderstorm near the airport shortly before the landing, with winds gusting up to 26 knots that may have affected the aircraft’s approach and landing roll. Investigators will examine weather radar, wind data and recorded flight parameters to assess the influence of crosswinds and gusts on the landing.
Amazon Prime Air spokesperson Kelly Nantel offered condolences and said the company was prioritizing support for those affected while cooperating with authorities. The operator of the flight, 21 Air also expressed condolences and stated it was assisting investigators. The NTSB has scheduled a media briefing to discuss investigative progress on Monday as recovery operations continue at the scene.
The recovery operation continues to affect airport operations and local traffic patterns as investigators and emergency crews maintain control of the site and collect evidence relevant to the ongoing federal inquiry.
