The aircraft, a Boeing 767-300 operated by charter company 21 Air, arrived from San Juan in Puerto Rico. Shortly before 2:00 PM local time, the plane veered off the runway and collided with several vehicles on the ground. Several of the injured were in these vehicles and had to be extricated by emergency services. Three people are receiving treatment for critical injuries.
Following the incident, a fire broke out and was fought by over 200 firefighters. The fire is now extinguished, but emergency services are handling a remaining fuel leak at the scene. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initially halted all air traffic at the airport.
The cause of the crash has not yet been determined. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the incident. According to flight data portal Flightradar24, the aircraft was traveling at 112 knots when it left the usable runway. At the time, thunderstorms and gusty winds were reported in the area.
Amazon has published a statement stating that they are assisting the authorities. Kelly Nantel, Director of Global Media Relations at Amazon, says:
The aircraft, operated by 21 Air, was attempting to land when this incident occurred. We are working closely with local authorities and officials to learn more and will fully cooperate with any investigation.
Miami Mayor Daniella Levine Cava commented on the local efforts during a press conference:
Right now, our focus is on the families, those who were injured, and the ongoing operation.