This operational report has been developed to provide regular updates on the progress of the search effort for MH370. Our work will continue to be thorough and methodical, so sometimes weekly progress may seem slow. Please be assured that work is continuing and is aimed at finding MH370 as quickly as possible.

Key developments this week

• GO Phoenix departed the search area on 8 April for the port of Fremantle to conduct a routine resupply visit.
• Fugro Discovery departed the port of Fremantle on 2 April and conducted calibration trials at the test site before commencing transit to return to the search area. The vessel had a winch cable replaced and has been equipped with a new towfish ‘Intrepid.’
• Fugro Equator arrived in the port of Fremantle on 8 April to conduct a routine 24-hour resupply visit.
• Fugro Supporter departed the search area on 4 April for the port of Fremantle to conduct a routine resupply visit.

Underwater search

More than 60 percent of the priority search area has been searched.

Assuming no significant delays with vessels, equipment or from the weather, the current underwater search area may be largely completed around May 2015.

[Click map to view larger image]

Ship movements

GO Phoenix departed the search area on 8 April for the port of Fremantle to conduct a routine resupply visit. The vessel is anticipated to arrive in port around 13 April.

Fugro Discovery departed the port of Fremantle on 2 April and conducted calibration trials at the test site. On 5 April, the vessel commenced transit to return to the search area. The vessel has been equipped with a new towfish ‘Intrepid.’

Fugro Equator arrived in the port of Fremantle on 8 April to conduct a routine 24-hour resupply visit.

Fugro Supporter departed the search area on 4 April for the port of Fremantle to conduct a routine resupply visit. The vessel is anticipated to arrive in port around 9 April and remain for around 24 hours.

Weather

Sea states in the priority search area are anticipated to range from 1 to 6 in the coming week.

Overall conditions are expected to continue to be generally favourable during the warmer months.