Divers recover flight data recorder from Lion Air plane

Officials with a black box recovered from the Java Sea during search operations yesterday. While the retrieval of the flight data recorder brings hope for those seeking an explanation on the cause of the crash, experts warned of a long process ahead. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

Indonesian divers yesterday morning retrieved the black box from the Lion Air Boeing 737 Max 8 jet that crashed into the Java Sea with 189 people on board on Monday.

The recovery of the flight data recorder is crucial to the ongoing probe into the accident. Search and rescue efforts have not led to any survivors being found so far.

Although the recovery brings new hopes for the authorities and families who seek an adequate explanation on the cause of the crash and certainty over the fate of their loved ones, aviation experts and investigators warned it is actually just an early step in a long process.

The focus of the search is now on another black box - the cockpit voice recorder.

Police forensic experts also continue to identify the remains of bodies in 61 body bags collected so far. As of yesterday, only one victim - Ms Jannatun Cyntia Dewi, a 24-year civil servant - had been identified.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on November 02, 2018, with the headline Divers recover flight data recorder from Lion Air plane. Subscribe