MH370: Search area to double if plane not found

The search area for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 which has been missing since March 8, 2014 may double to 120,000 square kilometers if the wreckage is not found in the current target area, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

This was announced at a press conference today, joined by Australian Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss and China’s Transport Minister Yang Chuantang.

“Malaysia is grateful to the two countries for their support in the search of the plane. The search in the first 60,000 square km, which covered 61 percent of the flight path, should end by the end of May.

“Should the aircraft not be found within the current search area, ministers agreed to extend the search by an additional 60,000 square kilometers to bring the search area to 120,000 square kilometers and thereby cover the entire highest probability area identified by expert analysis," he said in a joint statement.

The total search area of 120,000km² would cover 95 percent of the flight path.

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Ministers from the three countries remain committed to bring closure and some peace to the families and loved ones of those on board Malaysia Airlines flight MH370. - Photo Astro AWANI/SHAHIR OMAR

However, Tiong Lai said, the second phase of the search would cost an estimated AUS$50 million (RM142 million), compared to AUS$120 million (RM340 million) in the first phase, which would be borne by Malaysia and Australia.

Tiong Lai added, in the event the aircraft is found and accessible, ministers agreed to plan for recovery activities, including securing all the evidence necessary for the investigation.

Meanwhile, Truss expressed Australia’s willingness to continue to provide the commitment and support in the search effort.

“Although the estimated cost is reduced in the second phase, we will make sure that all efforts in finding mission is working as intended,” he said.

Truss also ruled out the possibility that the search was conducted in the wrong location.

He emphasised that target area right now is the plane's most likely resting place based on data from aviation experts, satellite signals and the amount of fuel the flight was carrying.

Chuantang also stated that China stayed true to its promise to provide the necessary assistance in order find the flight MH370.

“China is set to continue participating in a proactive manner. In the second phase we are ready to gather resources and mobilising assets such as aircrafts and vessels for the search operation.

The ministers also emphasised that the families of the passengers and crew remain a priority and the governments will continue to provide updates whenever new information is available on the developments and outcomes of the search operations.