China sends frigate, 2 planes to aid search for missing flight

Chinese navy spokesperson Liang Yang says the country has sent a navy frigate to assist in the search for missing Flight 8501. The country has also sent two air force planes. [Special coverage]

The frigate Huangshan which was on routine patrol in the South China Sea is currently heading for the Java Sea where the jet went missing.

Meanwhile, two Air Force IL-76 carriers, carrying searching equipment, lifeboats and other equipment, have arrived in South China's Hainan Province, ready to leave for Indonesia and join in the search.