On September 7, 2026, an Amazon cargo plane overshot the runway at Miami International Airport, resulting in a tragic crash that claimed five lives. Investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are now focused on understanding the cause of the accident.
Interviews with Pilots
The pilots, Captain Joseph Carroll and First Officer Jaime Felipe Silva Molina, have been released from the hospital following the crash. They are scheduled to be interviewed on Wednesday morning as part of the formal investigation. Captain Carroll, aged 55, has 7,145 flight hours as of March 31. First Officer Molina, aged 37, has 2,655 flight hours as of August 31.
Recovery of Key Evidence
Investigators have recovered vital tools for the investigation. Both the cockpit voice recorder and flight data recorder have been found. The cockpit voice recorder contains over two hours of quality audio. In contrast, the flight data recorder holds around 55 hours of data. NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy confirmed that more details would be shared after the pilot interviews.
Focus on Collecting Initial Evidence
The NTSB team has been actively gathering perishable evidence, such as drone footage, videos of the plane, and tire marks on the runway. This evidence is crucial for forming a detailed understanding of the crash circumstances. The plane, weighing approximately 252,000 pounds, carried about 32,000 pounds of cargo, mostly contact lenses. No hazardous materials were found.
“We need to talk to the crew to understand their experience with the plane’s controls,” NTSB Lead Investigator Chihoon Shin stated.
Possible Factors Contributing to the Crash
Initial data suggest that speed brakes and thrust reversers may not have been used. These tools help slow down or descend more quickly during landing. Shin emphasized a thorough performance study would be conducted to analyze how the aircraft was operating at the time.
Analysis of the Flight and Crew
The investigation will delve into the plane’s flight history, the crew’s experience and training, and the moments leading up to the accident. The Boeing 767-33 crashed after overshooting the runway, impacting several vehicles, and catching fire. It ended its path about 1,300 feet from the paved runway.
Post-Crash Developments
Two of Miami airport’s four runways were closed. Officials allowed one runway to reopen partially for departures. The focus remains on unraveling details of the sequence of events during the crash.
Expert Analysis
Aviation attorney Pablo Rojas reviewed crash footage, highlighting the plane’s excessive speed on approach. He noted potential piloting decisions and mechanical issues, particularly regarding the landing gear’s contact with the ground. Rojas raised questions about why a standard procedure, such as a go-around, was not attempted.
The investigation continues as the facts are pieced together, aiming to ensure accountability and learnings to enhance aviation safety.