Amazon calls timeout on 21 Air cargo contract

Amazon has temporarily suspended its partnership with 21 Air following an incident on September 6 at Miami airport where one of the cargo carrier's Boeing 767-300 aircraft overran its runway, striking two vehicles and resulting in five deaths and numerous injuries. The company stated that safety is their utmost priority and they are supporting the investigation into the accident.

Amazon's spokesperson, Kelly Nantel, confirmed that the company will continue to work with investigators and affected parties. It remains to be seen whether Amazon will ultimately terminate the contract with 21 Air, but the decision may have minimal impact on customers. The carrier has been operating under Amazon since mid-2024, managing seven 767-300 freighters for the company.

Industry experts suggest that Amazon may turn to ABX Air and Air Transport International, both owned by Air Transport Services Group, to fill any gaps in its network during the peak shipping season, which begins in late October. However, it may take up to a year to transfer the aircraft to a new operator due to the transfer process required for aviation licenses.