Flight recorders recovered from Amazon cargo plane crash

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the recovery of flight data and cockpit voice recorders from an Amazon cargo plane that crashed at Miami International Airport on September 6, 2026, marking a critical step in the investigation into the deadly incident. The Boeing 767-300, operated by 21 Air, overshot the runway by approximately 1,300 feet (396 meters), striking a van and an SUV, resulting in five fatalities and multiple injuries. The crash, which occurred during a busy Labor Day holiday weekend, has disrupted airport operations and raised questions about runway safety systems.

Recovery of Critical Data

The NTSB reported that both the flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder were recovered from the crash site, with the agency emphasizing that their analysis would be pivotal in determining the cause of the accident. NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy described the scene as "utter devastation," noting tire marks extending into the grass, debris scattered across the area, and the destruction of vehicles involved. The recorders, which are typically stored in durable casings, were transported to NTSB headquarters for evaluation. Homendy stated that the investigation was still in the "fact-finding stage," with no immediate conclusions about the crash’s cause.

The Crash and Its Immediate Aftermath

The Amazon cargo plane, which had completed two prior flights on the day of the crash, was en route from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Miami when it overran the runway shortly before 2 p.m. local time. According to NTSB officials, the aircraft struck a white Ford van operated by a cleaning company, which was carrying seven individuals, and later collided with a Toyota SUV. Five people in the van and one in the SUV were killed, while the remaining victims sustained injuries. The NTSB did not specify the exact number of survivors from the van but noted that the van was "torn apart" and that debris from the aircraft, vehicles, and airport infrastructure was scattered across the crash site.

The plane’s pilot and co-pilot were initially trapped onboard but were later rescued. A cellphone video captured a crew member jumping from the aircraft after the crash, while another image showed a crew member being transported on a gurney. The NTSB highlighted the challenges of the recovery effort, including the presence of fuel remnants and the need to prioritize victim identification and family reunification. Homendy stated, "The investigation and access to the aircraft, as well as evidence, can wait while that goes forward."

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns

The NTSB is examining multiple factors, including the aircraft’s flight history, crew training, radar data, and weather conditions at the time of the crash. A key focus of the investigation is the absence of an engineered materials arresting system (EMAS) at Miami International Airport. EMAS, which uses crushable concrete to stop overrun aircraft, is installed at some airports but not at Miami. Homendy indicated that this would be a "key" part of the inquiry, as it could have mitigated the crash’s impact. The agency also reviewed weather data, including a thunderstorm with gusts up to 26 knots near the airport shortly before the incident.

Investigators are also assessing the aircraft’s systems, engines, and the sequence of events leading to the runway overrun. The NTSB has urged the public to submit any relevant photos or videos of the crash. A team of 32 investigators is expected to remain at the site for at least a week. Homendy emphasized that the agency’s ultimate goal is to prevent future tragedies, stating, "Our recommendations must be implemented, or we'll be here again."

Impact on Miami International Airport

The crash caused significant disruptions at Miami International Airport, with two runways closed and over 160 flights canceled on September 6 alone. Additional delays and cancellations were reported on September 7, affecting thousands of travelers. The airport’s operations are expected to remain impacted as investigators continue their work. The NTSB has not yet provided a timeline for resuming full runway functionality.

Amazon and 21 Air, the operator of the aircraft, have expressed condolences to the victims’ families. Amazon spokesperson Kelly Nantel stated, "We’re heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today’s incident," while 21 Air’s CEO Keith Winters pledged cooperation with federal investigators. The crash has also sparked broader discussions about aviation safety protocols, particularly for cargo flights operating during peak travel periods.

The NTSB is expected to release additional updates on Tuesday, with a press conference planned to outline the investigation’s progress. As the agency continues its work, the focus remains on understanding the crash’s causes and implementing measures to prevent similar incidents. For now, the recovery of the flight recorders represents a critical step in unraveling the events that led to the "utter devastation" described by officials at the scene.