Two of four runways at Miami International Airport remained closed on the morning of Monday, Sept. 7, a day after an Amazon cargo plane overshot the runway, crashing into vehicles, killing five people and injuring another five.
Investigators were on scene attempting to determine the cause of the crash, which halted air traffic for the rest of the day during the busy travel Labor Day weekend. Airport officials warned travelers flights would be affected throughout the day.
“Passengers with flights scheduled today should check directly with their airline for flight status updates before heading to the airport,” according to a prepared statement by airport officials.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are
taking the lead on what caused the crashed. A news conference was expected Sept. 7.
What happened when Amazon plane crashed in Florida, killing 5
The Air Flight 7598 overshot the diagonal runway about 2 p.m. Sept. 6, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Five people died and five others were taken to hospitals, at least three if them in critical condition, Miami-Dade County fire officials said. Identities of the victims have not been released as of 9 a.m. Sept. 7.
Audio in the moments following the crash reveal rescue workers were attempting to locate the pilot and copilot. It’s not known if they are among the deceased.
Officials said foam from specialized airport units was used to extinguish a "complex" engine fire.
"One person was trapped under one of the involved vehicles and had to be extricated by specialized MDFR technical rescue personnel. Specialized MDFR hazardous materials (HazMat) units safely shut down the aircraft’s engine and worked to mitigate a fuel leak,” according to Miami-Dade County fire officials.
Heavy flames and smoke could be seen at the crash site. Photos showed the aircraft resting on its belly, beside a roadway with many vehicles, including semitrucks, nearby.
At least 55 flights have been cancelled, and more than 100 others are delayed at Miami International, according to FlightAware.
Amazon said in a statement it would cooperate with any investigation.
“We’re heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today’s incident at Miami International Airport,” the company said. “Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by this devastating loss.”
Michelle Spitzer is a journalist for The USA TODAY NETWORK-FLORIDA. As the network’s Rapid Response reporter, she covers Florida’s breaking news. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday day by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters
Kim Luciani, Karissa Waddick and John Pacenti contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: 2 runways still closed at Florida airport after deadly plane crash
