Amazon said Sunday it is temporarily halting all cargo operations with 21 Air after the carrier’s Boeing 767‑300 overran a runway at Miami International Airport on Sept. 6, killing five people on the ground and injuring five others.
Company response and next steps
Spokesperson Kelly Nantel explained that Amazon reviewed the circumstances surrounding the crash and decided to “pause our operations with 21 Air, the operator of Flight 7598.” The retailer emphasized that it will continue to move shipments using its other carriers, including Sun Country Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Air Transport International, ABX Air, ASL Airlines and Cargojet.
Details of the Miami crash
The 21 Air flight was arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico, when it overshot Runway 30 just before 2 p.m. ET. The aircraft struck two vehicles, including a van used by an airline cleaning service, and came to a stop after colliding with a second vehicle. All five fatalities were ground personnel; authorities identified them as Yoel Rodriguez Naranjo, 53; Rolando Aleman Leon, 55; Julio C. Pineda, 75; Carlos Acosta Fajardo, 53; and Javierkys Reyes Quevedo, 47. Five additional people were injured.
NTSB investigation findings
Data from the cockpit voice recorder showed one pilot repeatedly warning that the aircraft was “going too fast,” yet there was no consistent verbal response. About 15 seconds after touchdown, a pilot called for a go‑around, a maneuver that aborts the landing and circles for another attempt. The flight data recorder indicated a thrust increase consistent with a go‑around, but the speed brakes and thrust reversers were not deployed, according to NTSB investigator Chihoon Shin. The reason for the missing deceleration devices remains unclear.
21 Air’s statement
North Carolina‑incorporated 21 Air released a statement saying it remains focused on supporting those affected by the crash and will cooperate fully with the NTSB and its partners, including Amazon. The carrier expressed confidence in its safety policies, procedures and training.
Amazon’s commitment to safety
Amazon reiterated its commitment to safety and to assisting the investigation. “We’ll continue working to support the investigation and everyone affected,” Nantel said. By shifting cargo to other vetted carriers, Amazon aims to maintain reliable delivery service while ensuring the highest safety standards for its logistics network.
Impact on local and national logistics
While the incident occurred in Miami, the suspension affects Amazon’s nationwide cargo operations, as 21 Air handled shipments to and from Mexico and other destinations. The move underscores Amazon’s proactive approach to risk management and its willingness to act swiftly when safety concerns arise.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
