Singapore joins search operation for missing AirAsia flight

Singapore deployed on Monday another Air Force (RSAF) C-130 aircraft, the formidable-class frigate (RSS Supreme) and missile corvette (RSS Valour), to support the search operation of the missing AirAsia flight QZ8501 in Indonesia.[Special coverage]

The aircraft was sent off on Monday morning while the frigate RSS Supreme and missile corvette RSS Valour sailed off at 11.55 p. m. on Sunday, according to Singapore Navy.

Second Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing said that it was not the first time Singapore and Indonesia were working together.

"I believe that with the strong relationship that Indonesia and Singapore have built up over many years, which transcends all levels from the highest political level to the military commanders, we will be able to work closely and execute the search and locate operation effectively," he said.

Earlier on Sunday afternoon, Singapore has sent off an Air Force (RSAF) C-130 aircraft to join the search operation.

The Air Asia flight, which set off from Surabaya to Singapore, lost contact with air traffic control at 07:24 Sunday morning. There were 155 passengers and seven crew members on board the flight, with the only Singaporean a two-year-old girl Zoe Choi, who was traveling with her father, Choi Chi Man, a British national.

As of Sunday night, 16 next-of-kin have taken up offer to fly to Surabaya, others are waiting for further information at home or in a hotel, Changi Airport Group (CAG) said.