Search and rescue operations underway - AirAsia

The search and rescue operation (SAR) to locate the missing AirAsia flight QZ8501 which was en route Singapore from Indonesia before it lost contact with the control tower at approximately 6.24am, said AirAsia.

In a statement released on its official Facebook page, the airline has expressed its assurance that it will give its fullest cooperation in assisting the search mission.

AirAsia has established an Emergency Call Centre that is available for family or friends of those who may have been on board the aircraft. The number is: +622129850801.

The airline also said that any latest information will be updated on its website at www.airasia.com.

The plane departed Surabaya at 5:20am and was supposed to arrive in Singapore at 8:30am.

It was reported that communication was lost at approximately 7:24am, local time.

Earlier, Indonesia Air Transport Ministry flight director Djoko Murjatmodjo said AirAsia flight QZ8501 has requested a 'change of flight path' to avoid the clouds, before it was reported missing.