Mystery of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370: New Search Efforts and Breakthrough Technology
For the past 10 years, the disappearance of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 has remained one of the greatest mysteries of the modern era. The commercial airliner, carrying 239 people, vanished from the map, leaving behind a wide range of theories and unanswered questions. As the anniversary of the tragedy approaches, families of the victims are urging authorities to relaunch the search for the missing plane.
A Plane Crash Without a Plane
The fate of MH370 is unlike any other plane crash in history. Despite advancements in technology that have allowed us to retrieve black boxes from the depths of the ocean and reconstruct downed planes, the wreckage of MH370 remains elusive. It is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever boarded a commercial flight, but one that lacks a closing chapter.
Jiang Hui, who lost his mother in the disaster, finds this time of year especially tough. As the annual Qingming festival approaches, he is reminded that he has never been able to properly commemorate his mother’s life. She is still listed as “missing” back home in China. “I will only find my mom if I can find MH370,” Jiang said.
The Disappearance
On March 8, 2014, Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 disappeared from radar shortly after departing Kuala Lumpur. The flight had reached its cruising altitude and was on its standard route when it made an unexpected turn to the west and stopped communicating. Fragments believed to be from the aircraft have since washed up on the eastern coast of Africa and islands in the Indian Ocean.
A New Search?
This week, many loved ones of those missing returned to Malaysia to urge local authorities to relaunch the search for MH370. They believe that there is still a strong chance of locating the wreckage if someone is willing to invest the necessary funds. United States-based sea exploration firm Ocean Infinity has offered the Malaysian government a “no-find, no-fee” deal, similar to the one they had in 2018. However, the authorities would still have to pay if the aircraft is found.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has expressed his willingness to discuss a new search proposal with Ocean Infinity. He understands the pain and grief that the families of the victims have endured over the past decade and is determined to find answers.
Competing Theories
The disappearance of MH370 has given rise to numerous theories over the years. From mechanical failure to deliberate pilot error or hijacking, the possibilities are endless. The point at which facts end and the mystery begins is when the plane’s transponder stopped transmitting, approximately 40 minutes into the flight. Experts believe that the aircraft flew off course, gliding south over the Indian Ocean instead of its intended route.
Breakthrough in Technology
Aviation experts are confident that a breakthrough is possible with improved detection technology. One such technology is Weak Signal Propagation Reporter (WSPR), which has been used by radio amateurs to track radio signals around the world. Retired British Aerospace engineer Richard Godfrey has traced WSPR data back to the time of MH370’s disappearance and believes the aircraft may be lying between 3,000 and 4,000 meters below the Indian Ocean.
Reality Hits
Despite years of search efforts, we are still no closer to knowing exactly what caused the plane to go missing. However, there is hope that new search techniques, equipment, and a better understanding of the incident will lead to a breakthrough. Families of the victims are eager for closure and accountability.
Moving On
Some relatives of the victims have tried to move on with their lives but still carry the weight of the past. Sarah Bajc, who lost her partner in the tragedy, has relocated to Panama and opened an eco-resort. However, she still avoids watching dramas and documentaries about plane crashes and has recurring nightmares. She believes that a new search would bring closure to the families and the world.
Others, like Jiang, are determined to uncover the truth. He thinks of his mother every day and has joined other families in a legal bid for justice in China. They are suing Malaysia Airlines, its insurer, Boeing, and the manufacturer of the plane’s engine, demanding compensation and the resumption of psychological assistance for family members.
As the 10-year anniversary of the disappearance approaches, the families of MH370’s victims continue to search for answers. They hope that a new search effort, combined with breakthrough technology, will finally bring closure to this enduring mystery.