Search and rescue teams have yet to determine the whereabouts of the missing Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 aircraft as fears of a terrorist involvement mount.
Last heard from at 1.30am MYT on March 8, flight MH370 from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing was carrying 227 passengers, including six Australians, and 12 crew members.
The search effort was mobilised on Saturday morning, but has so far failed to find any evidence of any wreckage. With no reports of distress calls, emergency signals or bad weather, authorities have been left baffled as to why the aircraft would have fallen out of contact.
However, the discovery that two passengers were travelling on passports stolen in Thailand has stirred concerns of a terrorist involvement, although no group has yet claimed responsibility.
Meanwhile, Vietnamese forces have discovered two large oil slicks off the southern tip of Vietnam that may be connected with the missing aircraft. These are being tested for aviation fuel.
Australia has also sent aircraft to join the search operation.
“As the hours turn into days, we at Malaysia Airlines are similarly anxious and we appreciate the patience, support and prayers from everyone," the airline said.
"We however acknowledge that the most affected group in this incident is the families of those on-board. As such, our primary focus at this point in time is to care for the families.”
MAS has assigned caregivers to each family and is providing them with timely information, travel facilities, accommodation, meals and emotional support. It will fly family members that wish to make the journey from China and other countries to Kuala Lumpur in stages.
"The airline continues to work with the authorities and we appreciate the help we are receiving from all parties during this critical and difficult time."
