Miami International Airport (MIA) is now part of Amazon Air’s cargo flight operations after the e-commerce giant launched a double-daily freighter service at MIA to destinations across the US.
The new cargo service is being operated by Atlas Air Worldwide with Boeing 767-300F aircraft, and includes an onsite facility to sort packages bound for their next destination.
Miami-Dade County Mayor, Carlos A. Gimenez said: “I proudly welcome Amazon Air’s expansion to Miami-Dade County, and appreciate its commitment of two daily flights at MIA.
“I wish them continued success and growth within our community.”
Amazon already operates four warehouses in Miami-Dade County, all within 12 miles of MIA – the largest of which is a new 885,000-square-foot fulfillment center at Miami-Opa locka Executive Airport just completed this year.
Amazon Air director, Sarah Rhoads said: “We are excited to launch the Miami gateway to support our growing air operation. Amazon has enjoyed being a part of the Miami-Dade community and are thrilled to continue our relationship.”
The launch comes nine months after Miami-Dade Aviation Department (MDAD) officials hosted its first e-commerce strategy workshop with more than 30 local air cargo industry stakeholders, with the goal of establishing Miami-Dade County as one of the world’s leading e-commerce hubs.
Market research firm eMarketer forecasts Latin America to be a strong e-commerce growth region during that span, with a projected doubling of annual sales from $47.4 billion in 2015 to $84.8 billion in 2019.
MIA is America’s busiest airport for international freight and handles more freight to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other US airport.
“Amazon Air’s two daily flights will add a significant boost to our domestic cargo traffic, which is already up 17 percent through August,” said Miami-Dade Aviation director, Lester Sola.
