Investigators Retrieve Flight Recorders After Severe Amazon Cargo Aircraft Crash

The aircraft subsequently breached a perimeter fence and collided with a Toyota Corolla, coming to rest roughly 1,300 ft (394 m) beyond the runway.

Homendy described the crash scene as devastating, with debris from the aircraft, vehicles, and airport fencing scattered across the area.

“It’s difficult to see, and I imagine it is equally challenging for first responders,” she said.

She emphasized that recovering victims’ bodies is the immediate priority, noting that the investigation and access to the aircraft and evidence may be delayed.

The flight data recorder and cockpit voice recorder have been retrieved and are being sent to NTSB headquarters for analysis.

Homendy said investigators cannot yet provide substantive details about the crash cause, as evidence collection at the scene is ongoing.

Investigators will examine the flight history, crew experience and training, radar data, and aircraft performance; separate teams will assess the aircraft’s systems and engines, and a meteorologist will evaluate the weather conditions at the time of landing.

The NTSB will also assess whether an engineered materials arresting system (EMAS) should have been installed on the runway, a device intended to slow and stop aircraft that overrun the runway, which Homendy said is a key element of the investigation.

Earlier BBC Verify analysis indicated an active thunderstorm was present near the airport shortly before the crash, with wind gusts reaching up to 26 knots.

The NTSB has appealed to the public to share photographs or videos that could aid the investigation.

Homendy said the agency will issue safety recommendations upon completion of its investigation, emphasizing that its purpose is to prevent future tragedies.

“Our recommendations must be implemented; otherwise, we will face similar incidents again.”

Two of the airport’s four runways remained closed after the crash, and passengers have been warned to expect further disruption, following Sunday’s cancellations that affected aircraft and crew arrivals.

The crash occurred over the Labor Day holiday weekend, one of the busiest travel periods in the United States.

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