Proposal for Revival of MH370 Search

Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport has acknowledged a proposal from Texas-based company, Ocean Infinity, to resume the search for the remains of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370. The company, which previously conducted a private search for the ill-fated aircraft, has suggested a “no find, no fee” search in the southern Indian Ocean. Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced the proposal on Sunday, as the 10th anniversary of the mysterious disappearance of MH370 approaches. The official search for the aircraft was concluded in 2017, but a renewed effort could provide closure to the families of the 239 people onboard.

A Decade of Mystery

On March 8, 2014, Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 vanished from the radar shortly after taking off from Kuala Lumpur. The Boeing 777 was en route to Beijing when it seemingly diverted from its intended flight path. Satellite data indicated that the aircraft veered off and it is widely believed to have crashed in the southern Indian Ocean. Despite numerous search efforts, no substantial evidence has been found to determine the fate of the plane until now.

New Prospects for Location

If credible evidence can be presented to Malaysian authorities, plans for a new search led by Ocean Infinity may proceed. Transport Minister Loke stated his willingness to seek Cabinet approval for a contract with the company if convincing evidence is provided. He further extended an invitation to representatives of Ocean Infinity to visit Malaysia for discussions. Loke expressed the government’s unwavering commitment to finding MH370, offering solidarity and thoughts for the families of the victims.

Previous Efforts and Future Endeavors

The formal search for MH370, jointly conducted by Malaysia and China, officially concluded in 2017 after yielding no major breakthroughs. Although some debris was discovered on the east African coast and Indian Ocean islands, no substantial progress was achieved.

Ocean Infinity’s previous private search of the Indian Ocean also failed to deliver any substantial results. However, a breakthrough remained elusive as operational delays hindered their efforts. Now, with the arrival of their new fleet of ships and assets, the Texas-based company looks to reignite the search for MH370.

Potential Remuneration

The details of Ocean Infinity’s proposed contract, including the fee structure if remains or evidence is discovered, have not been disclosed. However, their previous agreement in 2018 included a $70 million fee if significant remains were found. More information is expected to be provided as discussions progress.

The Hill reached out to Ocean Infinity for additional comments, seeking their perspective on the potential search resumption.

Awaiting Closure and Finding Answers

Families and next of kin, including KS Nathan of the Voice MH370 group, have expressed their hopes for renewed efforts to locate the missing aircraft. Nathan highlighted that Ocean Infinity, having addressed previous operational constraints, stands in a stronger position to undertake the search and finally offer some answers and closure.