Malaysia will resume the deep-sea search for Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 later this month, more than 11 years after the aircraft vanished, the country’s transport ministry has announced.
The Boeing 777 was en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing when it disappeared from radar shortly after takeoff on March 8, 2014. There were 227 passengers and 12 crew members on board.
Satellite tracking later indicated that the aircraft veered off its planned route and flew south toward the remote southern Indian Ocean, where it is believed to have crashed.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the transport ministry said U.S.-based marine robotics company Ocean Infinity will conduct a 55-day intermittent search beginning December 30. The operation will focus on zones considered most likely to contain wreckage.
The ministry said the renewed effort reflects the government’s determination to bring closure to families affected by the tragedy.
China also welcomed the move. Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing appreciates Malaysia’s continued efforts to locate the missing aircraft.
Earlier this year, Malaysia approved a “no-find, no-fee” agreement with Ocean Infinity. Under the deal, the firm will receive $70 million only if it successfully locates the wreckage.
