MH370: Much to do still to improve global aviation industry

There is still much room to improve the safety and security of the global aviation industry.

Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said among the efforts that can be done is to install a real-time tracking device in all commercial aircraft.

"Malaysia has suggested to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to install this device in all commercial planes.

"I have also instructed them to speed up the process. This is because incidents can happen to any aircraft, at any time," he said.

He also said it's high time the battery life of the black boxes be lengthened, considering the capabilities of today's modern technology.

As for Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) director-general, Datuk Azharuddin Abdul Rahman, he assured that the welfare of the MH370 victims' next-of-kin will be taken care of.

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) CEO Ahmad Jauhari Yahya is proud of the commitment shown by his 20,000 staff in their handling of the two tragedies that befell the national carrier last year – the disappearance of MH370 in March and the MH17 catastrophe in July.

"I am truly impressed with their show of professionalism. They go above and beyond their duty to help out.

"Some were personally involved in care-giving. They sit down with the family members. They help them, listen to them. I see people volunteering. The spirit of volunteerism that existed was really amazing," he told Astro AWANI, recently.

When asked how the tragedies have changed him on a professional level, Ahmad Jauhari said: "I think if you ask any airline CEO what their worst nightmare is, it is losing an aircraft and the people (on board).

"In my experience, we lost not one but two (aircraft) in a period of four months," he said.

Ahmad Jauhari also revealed that not having an answer on the loss of Flight MH370 made it hard when facing the next-of-kin of those on board, while adding that those from China were more emotional as compared to Malaysians.

"They (next-of-kin from China) will ask why we can't find the plane. It's a tough question which we don't have an answer for. They demand answers we cannot give," he said.

When asked about his plans after his contract with MAS expires in September, he said he would first like to take a break.

"I personally want to take a break. My options after that? I will decide after I take the break," he said.

NOTE: Catch the full version of Astro AWANI's exclusive interviews with Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, Civil Aviation Department (DCA) director-general, Datuk Azharuddin Rahman and MAS chief executive officer Ahmad Jauhari Yahya on Sunday via Channel 501 under the special programme titled, "MH370: A Year On". Do log in to www.astroawani.com on March 8 and be part of our special coverage as we look back at the incidents that followed MH370 and why we need to be hopeful for the future.