The Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue teams responded in less than 30 seconds to the cargo plane accident that occurred on Sunday at Miami International Airport (MIA), as revealed by the county mayor, Daniella Levine Cava.
The mayor provided this information on Monday in a statement published on X after attending an informational session of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) regarding the investigation of the incident.
"I am deeply grateful to our Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue teams, who responded to the scene in less than 30 seconds to extinguish the fire and assist the injured," expressed Levine Cava.
The official also highlighted the work of the aviation staff in both responding to the accident and managing airport operations and assisting the affected passengers.
Levine Cava recalled in her new statement the victims and assured that her thoughts remain with the families of those who died, the injured, and all those affected by the tragedy.
The mayor explained that she has been in contact with federal authorities and that she spoke directly with the chairwoman of the NTSB, Jennifer Homendy, before the briefing on Monday.
"The investigation is just beginning, and we will let the facts guide the way," stated Levine Cava, who emphasized that the county will continue to collaborate with the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) throughout the process.
While the investigations continue, two of the four runways at Miami International Airport remain closed, confirmed Levine Cava.
The mayor warned that this situation will continue to affect flights and advised passengers to check directly with their airlines before heading to the airport.
The authorities are working with the FAA and airlines to minimize disruptions and fully restore operations as soon as possible.
The accident occurred on Sunday when a Boeing 767-300 cargo plane operated by 21 Air for Amazon Air overshot the runway during landing at MIA, after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The aircraft crossed the airport perimeter, struck several vehicles, and caught fire. Authorities later confirmed the death of five people and five others were injured.
The NTSB revealed new details on Monday about the flight's trajectory after it went off the runway: the aircraft traveled about 1,300 feet —approximately 396 meters— beyond the paved end, struck at least two vehicles, and both of its flight recorders were recovered for the investigation.
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