How big would costs rise if MH370 hunt expands beyond priority?

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The Cost of Expanding the MH370 Search Remains Prohibitive Without Further International Assistance

Expanding the search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 beyond the current priority zone would likely incur costs of an "orders of magnitude" greater than what has already been expended, potentially rendering the operation prohibitive without substantial additional international support. The primary search zone, a 60,000 square kilometre area of the sea floor, is nearing completion, with the possibility of concluding the hunt within weeks if no findings emerge. The current operation has already seen significant expenditure, estimated at up to A$52 million (RM146.735 million), jointly funded by Australia and Malaysia.
Current Search Efforts and Expenditures

The ongoing search has focused on a specific 60,000 square kilometre area of the sea floor, located approximately 1,600 kilometres west of Perth, Australia. This region is considered the most probable resting place for the Boeing 777 aircraft. Four vessels, operated by the Dutch firm Fugro and equipped with advanced underwater drones, have surveyed about 40 per cent of this previously unmapped seabed. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau is leading these efforts, with an expectation to complete the current priority search by May.
The Scale of Potential Expansion

Should the search need to extend beyond the designated priority area, the scope would dramatically increase to a potential 1.1 million square kilometre region. This expanded area represents a significant leap in scale, with officials noting the difficulty in comprehending the sheer magnitude of such an undertaking. The logistical and financial implications of covering such a vast expanse are considerable, far exceeding the current operational parameters.
Financial Implications of an Extended Search

The financial burden of extending the search into the much larger surrounding area is a significant concern. While specific figures for the expanded search costs are not detailed, it is understood that they would be dramatically higher than the current A$52 million expenditure. The prohibitive nature of these potential costs underscores the necessity for additional international assistance, as both Australia and Malaysia have contributed substantially to the existing operation.
Need for International Collaboration

Continuing the search beyond the current priority zone is deemed impossible without greater international involvement. Australia and Malaysia have shared the costs of the operation thus far, but the potential costs associated with a broader search are so substantial that they would likely require a more extensive global commitment. This highlights the complex international cooperation required for such prolonged and large-scale search missions in aviation mysteries.

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How big would costs rise if MH370 hunt expands beyond priority?

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