Search Resumes for Missing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370: Key Details

Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 disappeared on March 8, 2014, while traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, leaving behind a mystery that has endured for over a decade. The aircraft vanished from radar 39 minutes after takeoff, carrying 227 passengers and 12 crew members, the majority of whom were Chinese citizens.

Search Resumes for Missing Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370: Key Details

In December 2023, the Malaysian government announced that Ocean Infinity would resume the search for Flight MH370. This operation is set to begin on December 30 and is expected to last for 55 days. Ocean Infinity, an American marine robotics firm, will focus on areas where the likelihood of finding the wreckage is highest.

Initial Investigation and Theories

After the plane’s disappearance, search efforts initially concentrated on the South China Sea and expanded to the Andaman Sea and the southern Indian Ocean. The largest underwater search in history was coordinated by Australia, Malaysia, and China, covering approximately 120,000 square kilometers (46,000 square miles) of ocean floor.

Throughout the extensive search, various theories emerged regarding the disappearance of Flight MH370. These theories included hijacking, cabin depressurization, and mechanical failure. Notably, there were no distress calls, ransom demands, or signs of severe weather.

Discovery of Debris and Previous Search Efforts

• The first confirmed piece of debris, a flaperon, was found on Réunion Island in July 2015.
• Subsequent fragments were discovered along the east coast of Africa.
• Search operations were officially suspended in January 2017 but resumed in 2018 under a “no find, no fee” agreement with Ocean Infinity. This search also ultimately ended without success.

Challenges in the Search

The search operations have been complicated due to the vastness of the Indian Ocean, which is the world’s third largest ocean. With average depths of around 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) and challenging weather conditions, locating wreckage in these waters poses significant difficulties.

Current Developments

In March 2023, the Malaysian government approved a new contract with Ocean Infinity for another search attempt. This search will be concentrated on a 15,000-square-kilometer (5,800-square-mile) area. The government has committed to paying $70 million only if the wreckage is discovered.

As the search resumes, Ocean Infinity plans to utilize advanced technology and expert analysis to narrow down the potential search zones. The renewed effort brings hope to the families of the 239 individuals onboard, as the quest for answers continues.