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 a briefing by 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 attend to the injured," expressed Levine Cava.
The official also emphasized the work of the aviation staff, both in responding to the accident and in managing airport operations and assisting the affected passengers.
Levine Cava recalled the victims in her new statement and assured that her thoughts remain with the families of those who died, the injured individuals, and everyone affected by the tragedy.
The mayor explained that she has been in contact with federal authorities and spoke directly with the chair of the NTSB, Jennifer Homendy, ahead of the briefing this Monday.
"The investigation has just begun, and we will let the facts guide the way," stated Levine Cava, who assured that the county will continue collaborating 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, Levine Cava confirmed.
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.
Authorities are working with the FAA and airlines to minimize disruptions and fully restore operations as soon as possible.
The incident occurred on Sunday when a Boeing 767-300 freighter operated by 21 Air for Amazon Air overshot the runway while landing at MIA, after arriving from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The aircraft crossed the airport perimeter, collided with several vehicles, and caught fire. Authorities later confirmed the death of five people and that another five were injured.
The NTSB revealed new details on Monday about the aircraft's path after it overshot 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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