At least five people have died after an Amazon cargo plane overshot the runway at Miami International Airport, striking multiple vehicles before catching fire.

What happened

The Boeing 767-300, operating as Prime Air flight 7598 and carrying the Amazon arrow logo, overran the airport's diagonal runway at approximately 2pm and came to a stop at the northwest end of the airport after crossing a nearby road. Airport officials confirmed all runways and taxiways were closed shortly afterwards, with a ground stop put in place.

Casualties and response

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava confirmed at least five deaths, with multiple additional people transported to local hospitals, three of them in critical condition. She described the area as still an active scene and urged the public to stay away, while confirming a dedicated hotline had been set up for families who believe a loved one may have been involved, reachable through the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office.

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said over 60 units responded to the scene, arriving to find the aircraft engulfed in flames and heavy smoke. Miami Fire Chief Raied Jadallah said crews arrived within 30 seconds of the emergency call being received. Footage shared online showed thick black smoke rising from the aircraft shortly after the crash.

Amazon's response

Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel confirmed the incident involved an Amazon Air plane operated by 21 Air, saying the situation remained fast-moving and that details were still being gathered. She said the company was working closely with local authorities to understand what happened, with the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved described as the immediate priority.

Ongoing disruption

The airport has issued a full air and ground stop, halting all other flights from landing or departing. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office confirmed a section of NW 67th Avenue near the airport has been closed due to the first responder presence, with travellers advised to expect delays and seek alternate routes.

Investigation

The Federal Aviation Administration has confirmed the incident and said it is investigating the cause of the crash.