Cargo operations at Miami International Airport (MIA) have largely returned to normal less than 24 hours after a fatal Amazon freighter crash caused a major disruption at the US air cargo hub. Freighter arrivals and departures were operating again on September 7, although some wider flight disruption remained.
The accident occurred on September 6 when a Boeing 767-300 freighter operated by 21 Air for Amazon overran the runway while landing after a flight from San Juan, Puerto Rico. The aircraft crossed the airport perimeter, struck vehicles and caught fire. At least five people were killed and five others injured, with three of the injured reported to be in critical condition.
The crash triggered a ground stop that halted airport operations for roughly three hours. More than 160 flights were cancelled and nearly 325 delayed, creating significant disruption at one of the United States’ major cargo gateways. Two of MIA’s four runways had reopened by Sunday evening, allowing operations to gradually resume.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the accident. Authorities are examining factors including the aircraft’s landing speed, touchdown point, braking performance, weather conditions and possible mechanical issues. No cause has yet been established.
Despite the rapid recovery of cargo activity, the incident is expected to continue affecting passenger and freight schedules while investigators work at the crash site. Miami International is a major US air cargo gateway, making the restoration of normal freighter operations important for regional and international supply chains.