Xia said he made the suggestion during a meeting with Malaysian officials on Wednesday.
He said different search units should enhance coordination and information sharing, while suggesting Malaysia allow China to send an expert team to offer technical support.
This would help both keep the CAAC posted on developments and pacify relatives of the missing passengers.
Xia said the CAAC has formed a working group to provide assistance to the relatives.
Ong Ka Ting, Malaysian Prime Minister's Special Envoy to China, said the Malaysian government will give priority to China's requirement, and explore a channel for communication between the aviation authorities of the two sides immediately.
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