By midday on Thursday, eight Chinese ships and five helicopters had searched for the missing plane for over 100 hours, covering more than 45,000 square kilometers.

The China Maritime Search and Rescue Center said it had expanded its search area westward, almost doubling its initial area. Chinese merchant ships in the Strait of Malacca are also being asked to help with the search mission.

10 satellites are being used to provide information and technological support. The vessels will continue the search following the ocean currents in the Gulf of Thailand, until new orders are given.