The multinational search efforts for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, missing since 2014, have been temporarily halted due to adverse weather conditions, according to a statement from Malaysian officials on Thursday. AFP reported the suspension was confirmed by Malaysia's Transport Minister, who emphasized the 'unpredictable climate patterns' complicating underwater operations in the southern Indian Ocean.
Weather disruptions marked the latest setback in the decade-long quest to locate the aircraft, which vanished en route from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people aboard. International teams from over 25 countries and regions previously collaborated on the search, which covered over 120,000 square kilometers before being scaled back in 2018.
Families of passengers expressed renewed frustration over the delay. 'Every pause feels like losing them again,' said a spokesperson for a relatives’ advocacy group. Analysts suggest the suspension highlights the technical and environmental challenges of deep-sea exploration, while aviation experts stress the need for improved tracking systems to prevent future mysteries.
Malaysian authorities reiterated their commitment to resuming operations once conditions improve, though no timeline was provided. The search suspension comes ahead of a planned international conference on aviation safety reforms, where MH370’s legacy is expected to dominate discussions.
