MH370 flight search likely to restart in new area after latest ‘credible’ information

Malaysia is set to relaunch the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, which disappeared in 2014 with 239 people on board. Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed in Parliament on November 5 that the country is in advanced talks with Ocean Infinity, a US-based marine exploration company, to resume the search. The new proposal outlines a 15,000-square-kilometer area off the coast of Western Australia in the southern Indian Ocean, where the plane is believed to have crashed.The search will be conducted under a “no find, no fee” agreement, meaning Malaysia would only pay if wreckage is discovered. Ocean Infinity has requested a $70 million fee if successful, similar to its previous offer in 2018. Loke stated that the proposal is credible, based on the latest expert analysis, and is currently under negotiation. If finalized, the Malaysian government would need to seek Cabinet approval before proceeding.

MH370 Search History

Flight MH370, which vanished on its way from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, remains one of aviation’s greatest mysteries. Satellite data indicated that the aircraft most likely crashed in the southern Indian Ocean, though previous searches in the area failed to locate the wreckage. A 120,000-square-kilometer search by Malaysia, China, and Australia from 2014 to 2017, and another attempt by Ocean Infinity in 2018, yielded no significant findings, despite the large-scale efforts and costs.

Malaysia is likely to enhance cooperation with China for the renewed search.

International Support and Legal Considerations

The renewed search effort has gained support from international stakeholders, especially families of the Chinese passengers. A Beijing court is currently considering compensation claims from over 40 families, and Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin recently expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s continued commitment to solving the mystery.

The case has also sparked discussions on strengthening international collaboration in the search efforts. Dr. Lam emphasized that Malaysia should not hesitate to work closely with China, especially given the technological capabilities of Chinese research vessels.The search for MH370 is expected to continue attracting significant global attention as officials push forward with new efforts to uncover the truth behind the aircraft’s disappearance.