Search will use “no find, no fee” model; Malaysia to pay only if the wreckage is found
Malaysia is set to restart the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, the plane that vanished in 2014 with 239 passengers and crew on board. The decision follows a “credible” proposal from U.S.-based marine exploration firm Ocean Infinity, which has identified a potential search area in the southern Indian Ocean.
The company’s proposal, submitted in June 2024, outlines a search zone of 15,000 square kilometers off the coast of Western Australia. This renewed effort will adopt a “no find, no fee” approach, ensuring Malaysia will only incur costs if the wreckage is located.
Transport Minister confirms advanced talks
Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke confirmed to parliament on November 5 that negotiations with Ocean Infinity are in progress. He noted that the search plan is based on the latest data and scientific analysis, which the Malaysian government finds credible. If the agreement is finalized, it will require cabinet approval before it is officially launched.
“Based on the latest information and analysis from experts and researchers, Ocean Infinity’s search proposal is credible and can be considered by the Malaysian government as the flight’s official registrar,” said Loke, adding that the company would receive a $70 million fee if successful.
Ocean Infinity returns with renewed focus
Ocean Infinity, a marine robotics firm headquartered in Texas, last searched for MH370 in 2018. Although that mission ended without success, CEO Oliver Plunkett expressed the company’s readiness to resume the search. “Finding MH370 and bringing some resolution for all connected with the loss of the aircraft has been a constant in our minds since we left the southern Indian Ocean in 2018,” said Plunkett.
Ocean Infinity claims to have gathered new scientific data that could lead to the aircraft’s final resting place. The company’s advanced marine technology and data analysis offer renewed hope for locating the missing plane after nearly a decade of uncertainty.
Background of the MH370 search
Flight MH370 disappeared on March 8, 2014, with 227 passengers and 12 crew members. Following the incident, investigators analyzed satellite data, suggesting the aircraft likely crashed in the southern Indian Ocean. Despite major international efforts, including searches by Malaysia, China, Australia, and later Ocean Infinity, no significant findings were made, and the search was suspended in 2017.
The initial search area, which began in Southeast Asia, expanded significantly into the Indian Ocean. Numerous countries participated, with nearly 60 ships and 50 aircraft involved. In 2018, Ocean Infinity conducted a second search, which also concluded without locating the wreckage.
Legal and diplomatic implications
The announcement of the renewed search comes as a Beijing court reviews compensation claims from families of over 40 Chinese passengers. The Chinese government has expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s ongoing commitment, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin acknowledging Malaysia’s efforts.
The decision to reengage Ocean Infinity in the search for MH370 underscores a commitment to resolving one of aviation’s greatest mysteries and bringing closure to the families of those who were on board.
