Underwater acoustic analysis reveals unique pressure signals associated with aircraft crashes in the sea: revisiting MH370

Abstract

Data analysis from the hydroacoustic stations of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization has unveiled distinctive pressure signals linked to aircraft crashes of varying sizes in the ocean. Notably, these signals were detected at distances ranging from two to five thousand kilometres, highlighting the efficacy of underwater acoustic technology in event identification and classification in marine environments. In this study, we investigate the plausibility of an aircraft, such as Malaysian Airlines Flight 370 (MH370), crashing into the sea leaving a discernible pressure signal at distant hydrophones. Consequently, we focus on recordings obtained from the hydroacoustic monitoring stations located at Cape Leeuwin and Diego Garcia, within a few minutes of the last satellite ping on the 7th arc, associated with the assumed crash time and location. Among the available data, only one relevant signal has emerged as a potential candidate, albeit recorded at a single station out of the two stations available. To ensure a comprehensive analysis, we also examine the time frame and location of the airplane along its initial route. Though no corresponding signal was observed. Nevertheless, the findings in this study narrow down the range of possibilities and present a novel scientific approach to investigate such incidents. These findings contribute to our understanding of acoustic signals associated with aircraft crashes at sea. They emphasise the potential for hydrophones to detect events even when the signal travels long distances through land. Ultimately, this research offers recommendations for conducting on-site experiments involving controlled explosions with energy levels similar to the impact of MH370 along the 7th arc. The aim is to encourage pertinent authorities to implement actions that could reveal insights into the destiny of MH370 specifically. Additionally, this initiative seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for addressing comparable incidents in the broader ocean context.