Malaysia Airlines released a media statement just before Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Razak announcement that MH370 was assumed to have crashed in the southern Indian Ocean, which was shared with the families of the passengers and crew who were on board the plane. Here is the statement in full:

"Malaysia Airlines deeply regrets that we have to assume that MH370 ended in the southern Indian Ocean. As you will hear in the next hour from Malaysia's Prime Minister, new analysis of satellite data suggests the plane went down in the Southern Indian Ocean.

"On behalf of all of us at Malaysia Airlines and all Malaysians, our prayers go out to all the loved ones of the 226 passengers and of our 13 friends and colleagues at this enormously painful time.

"We know there are no words that we or anyone else can say which can ease your pain. We will continue to provide assistance and support to you, as we have done since MH370 first disappeared in the early hours of 8 March, while flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing.

"The ongoing multinational search operation will continue, as we seek answers to the questions which remain. Alongside the search for MH370, there is an intensive investigation, which we hope will also provide answers.

"We would like to assure you that Malaysia Airlines will continue to give you our full support throughout the difficult weeks and months ahead.

"Once again, we humbly offer our sincere thoughts, prayers and condolences to everyone affected by this tragedy."