Malaysia has announced its commitment to initiate a new search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, which vanished on March 8, 2014, while traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people on board.
Despite the extensive investigation and search efforts that followed, the aircraft remains missing, making it one of aviation’s greatest mysteries.
Transport Minister, Anthony Loke revealed that the maritime exploration firm, Ocean Infinity will conduct the new search, building on their previous but unsuccessful attempt in 2018.
The new search area covers 15, 000 square kilometers in the southern Indian Ocean, identified through the latest expert analysis.
The Malaysian government agreed in principle to Ocean Infinity’s proposal on December 13, and the transport ministry is on track to finalize the contract by early 2025. The search is expected to commence once the contract is signed, with an optimal timeframe for operations set between January and April.
Read also: Ronaldo to run for CBF presidency
Following a no find, no fee model, Malaysia will only pay Ocean Infinity $70 million if the aircraft is located during the 18-month search period. Loke emphasized that this decision underscores the government’s dedication to finding closure for the families of the flight’s victims.
The initial search led by Australia covered 120,000 square kilometers with minimal findings, consisting mainly of debris.
Throughout the years, numerous theories have emerged regarding the plane’s disappearance, including speculation about the actions of its pilot.
While the 2018 report pointed to potential air traffic control failings and manual course changes, Loke has acknowledged that no guarantees can be made regarding the success of the upcoming search.
Any discovery deemed credible must meet specific criteria outlined in the search contract.
