Bad weather is proving problematic for the search for MH370, with the latest blow being the damage of a system onboard a search vessel, forcing it to return to port for repairs. In an operational update, Australia’s Joint Agency Coordination Centre (JACC) says the supporting frame of GO Phoenix’s deep tow system was damaged whilst on deck in rough weather. It adds that the initial plan was to repair the damage on site, but the significant amount of welding needed resulted in the vessel’s supply of bottled oxygen and acetylene, both required for welding, running out on 3 June. The vessel arrived in Fremantle on 8 June for resupply, and repairs will be conducted en route back to the search area.
