Singapore's vessels to join new search mission for AirAsia plane wreckage

Republic of Singapore Air Force personnel survey the waters during a search and locate operation for the missing AirAsia flight QZ8501 plane at an undisclosed search area December 30, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

Singapore so far has sent two C-130 aircraft and four vessels to join the search operation, and specialists of the Transport Ministry's Air Accident Investigation Bureau will depart for the search area on Wednesday.

Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong Tuesday night wrote on his facebook account that he is deeply saddened to learn the fate of AirAsia QZ8501.

"It is always difficult and painful when a disaster like this happens," He said. "My deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of loved ones of those on board, as well as the countries of the victims. We share your grief, and hope that you will overcome this great tragedy."

The AirAsia flight, which set off from Surabaya to Singapore, lost contact with air traffic control Sunday morning. Of the 162 onboard, one is a two-year-old Singapore girl, Zoe Choi, who was traveling with his father Choi Chi Man, a British national who was based in Indonesia as a senior management member at an energy firm.