Amazon has temporarily suspended its operations with 21 Air, the cargo carrier whose Boeing 767 cargo jet crashed after overshooting a runway at Miami International Airport last week. The decision comes after reports emerged detailing numerous safety complaints against the company.
The fatal crash occurred on September 6, resulting in the deaths of five individuals who were part of a cleaning crew in a van struck by the aircraft. Both pilots aboard the plane survived with minor injuries.
Amazon confirmed the pause in operations to NBC News, stating it was a result of the ongoing investigation into the crash and a review of "surrounding circumstances." A spokesperson for Amazon, Kelly Nantel, said the company is working with other shipping partners to cover the routes previously handled by 21 Air. These partners include Sun Country Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, Air Transport International, ABX Air, ASL Airlines, and Cargojet.
Reports prior to Amazon's announcement highlighted historical safety concerns associated with 21 Air. Former employees and pilots have cited long-standing issues regarding maintenance, pilot quality, and managerial pressure. One former pilot, Karl Seuring, told CBS News that "21 Air has a long-established history of safety problems."
21 Air has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the suspension or the safety concerns raised.