12 Years on, Renewed Hunt for Missing Malaysia Airlines Flight Comes up Empty

Key Highlights

  • Malaysian authorities reported a renewed deep-sea search for missing Flight MH370 failed to locate the aircraft.
  • The search was conducted by marine robotics company Ocean Infinity over 28 days in two phases, covering 7,571 square kilometers of seabed.
  • Despite previous unsuccessful searches, families of those aboard urged for continued efforts and no-find, no-fee contracts with other deep-sea exploration companies.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Yet another chapter in the saga of missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 has come to an unfulfilling conclusion. The renewed search by marine robotics company Ocean Infinity, which spanned from March 25-28 last year and December 31, 2025, to January 23 this year, has yielded nothing but frustration for the families of those aboard.

Resuming the Hunt

The Air Accident Investigation Bureau announced that despite surveying thousands of square kilometers of ocean floor, Ocean Infinity’s search efforts have not confirmed any findings related to the aircraft wreckage. This latest failure comes after a similar no-find, no-fee contract with the Texas-based company was renewed in 2025.

Weather Disruptions

Not always smooth sailing. Weather conditions periodically hampered operations, adding yet another layer of challenge to this already arduous task. The search, which covered about 7,571 square kilometers (2,923 square miles) in the southern Indian Ocean, was meant to be an extension of a previous unsuccessful effort.

Family’s Pleading

The families of those aboard Flight MH370 have not given up. Voice 370, representing some family members, issued a statement urging Malaysian authorities to extend the contract with Ocean Infinity and consider similar arrangements with other deep-sea exploration companies.

No-fee Contracts Controversy

Any request by Ocean Infinity to extend the search should be granted without hesitation,” said Voice 370. “If the present search is unsuccessful, we would also urge Malaysia to kindly consider extending similar no-find, no-fee opportunities to other capable deep-sea exploration companies.” The group’s determination shines through in their unwavering commitment.

While the current contract runs until June, Ocean Infinity’s vessel has been redeployed for other work and is unlikely to return soon. The approaching winter months and deteriorating sea conditions also pose challenges. Despite the setbacks, families remain hopeful that answers will come sooner rather than later.

You might think this is new, but it’s not.

The hunt for Flight MH370 has been a long and frustrating journey. Will this time be any different? Only time—and more searches—will tell.