Miami, Fla. – The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced it will release a readout of the cockpit voice recorder from the Amazon Air cargo plane that overran a runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday, killing five people. The incident, which also injured several others, has prompted a thorough investigation by federal safety officials.
Investigation details
NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy told reporters that investigators have recovered both the cockpit voice recorder and the flight data recorder from the aircraft. The voice recorder contains roughly two hours of clear audio, while the flight data recorder holds about 55 hours of flight information. “We expect to release a readout of the voice recorder on Wednesday after the pilots have been interviewed,” Homendy said.
Preliminary analysis of the data shows the plane was on final approach when, seconds before the recording ends, the throttles were increased in a manner consistent with a “go‑around thrust,” according to NTSB investigator Chihoon Shin. A few seconds later, the brakes were reapplied and remained engaged until the end of the recording. There was no evidence that speed brakes or thrust reversers were deployed during the overrun.
Crash circumstances
Amazon Air Flight 7598 was arriving from Puerto Rico with an estimated 32,000 pounds of cargo, primarily contact lenses. Upon landing, the aircraft failed to stop within the runway limits, crossed the runway end, and struck a Ford Econoline van owned by a company that cleans aircraft. The van carried seven occupants.
Miami‑Dade County Sheriff’s Office identified the five victims as Rolando Aleman Leon, 55; Yoel Rodriguez Narajo, 53; Julio C. Pineda, 75; Carlos Acosta Fajardo, 53; and Javierkys Reyes Quevedo, 47. The two pilots were treated at a local hospital and have since been released.
Community impact and response
The tragedy has shaken the Miami community, especially those who work in aviation and airport services. Local officials expressed condolences to the families of the victims and emphasized the importance of a thorough investigation to prevent future accidents. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families affected by this heartbreaking event,” said Miami‑Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
Airport authorities are cooperating fully with the NTSB and have temporarily suspended certain runway operations while safety reviews are conducted. The investigation will focus on factors such as runway conditions, aircraft performance, and crew actions.
What comes next
The NTSB plans to interview the two pilots in the coming days and will continue to analyze the flight data recorder. Once the voice‑recorder readout is released, it will provide additional insight into the crew’s communications and decision‑making during the final moments of the flight.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed through official updates from the NTSB, Miami‑Dade County Sheriff’s Office, and Miami International Airport. The investigation’s findings will be critical for improving aviation safety standards and ensuring that similar tragedies are avoided in the future.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
