Miami, Fla. – A tragic accident involving an Amazon cargo aircraft at Miami International Airport (MIA) has led to significant travel disruptions for passengers heading into the Labor Day holiday weekend. The plane, which had just arrived from San Juan, Puerto Rico, crashed off the runway early Sunday morning, striking several ground vehicles and igniting a fire.
Casualties and immediate response
Emergency responders confirmed five fatalities and five injuries, three of which are listed as critical. First‑responders worked quickly to contain the blaze and secure the crash site. Within hours, airport officials halted all arrivals and departures to ensure safety while investigators began gathering evidence.
Impact on flights
As of 6 a.m. Monday, the airport’s flight tracking system recorded 39 cancellations and 15 delayed departures. Officials warned that those numbers were expected to rise as the day progressed, given the high volume of travel typical for the Labor Day weekend. By early afternoon, two of MIA’s four runways had been cleared and reopened, allowing limited operations to resume, but many airlines continue to operate on reduced schedules.
What travelers should know
Passengers with tickets through MIA are urged to check with their airlines for the latest status updates. Those affected by cancellations may be eligible for rebooking or refunds, depending on airline policies. Airport staff are stationed throughout the terminals to provide assistance and answer questions.
Investigation underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has dispatched a team to the scene to determine the cause of the crash. Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft was on the ground when it veered off the runway, but the exact factors leading to the loss of control remain under investigation. The NTSB will release a full report once the investigation is complete.
Community response
Local officials, including Miami‑Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, expressed condolences to the families of the victims and praised the rapid response of first‑responders. “Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this heartbreaking event,” the mayor said in a statement. Community groups have also begun organizing support efforts for the families of the deceased.
Looking ahead
While the airport works to restore full operations, travelers are advised to remain flexible and monitor airline communications. The incident underscores the importance of safety protocols at busy transportation hubs, especially during peak travel periods like the upcoming holiday weekend.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
