Five individuals lost their lives in Miami International Airport when an Amazon cargo plane skidded off a runway, as stated by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) chairperson. Jennifer Homendy, the NTSB chairperson, revealed that the victims were in a van belonging to a cleaning company carrying a total of seven people. Additionally, an SUV outside the airport premises was struck during the incident.
Homendy described the crash site as “utter devastation,” emphasizing the extensive damage caused. She mentioned observing tire marks transitioning from the pavement to the grass, a destroyed van from the cleaning crew, damaged fencing, navigational tools, and a crushed SUV. The NTSB has retrieved both the voice and data recorders from the aircraft for investigation.
The van, which belonged to Professional Ocean Service Corp., was severely damaged, with seven individuals inside. Homendy announced that more details, including the plane’s speed from the flight data recorder, would be disclosed on Tuesday. Investigators are analyzing whether the plane landed too late to stop safely.
The absence of an engineered material arresting system (EMAS) at Miami International Airport, which could have potentially prevented the tragedy, is under scrutiny. Homendy stressed the importance of determining if EMAS should be mandatory at all airports to enhance safety measures. The NTSB’s investigation will focus on various factors such as speed, braking, weather conditions, and mechanical issues related to the aircraft.
The crash disrupted airport operations, with two runways remaining closed the following day. Miami International Airport and Amazon expressed their condolences to the families affected by the tragic incident. The NTSB will also investigate the maintenance history of the 32-year-old Boeing 767 involved in the crash.
