The search operation to trace the missing Indian Air Force aircraft AN-32 goes on unhindered for the third day on Sunday, braving monsoon weather conditions in the sea.
The mission is now centred on the probable crash zone of about five thousand square kilometre centered around the probable area of disappearance of the transport aircraft from the radar screens Friday morning.
Sources say the Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force may expand the area of search operation if needed.
The focus of the search mission to trace the missing AN32 is now between 200 to 400 kilometer swath of sea surface East of Chennai.
Though thick clouds are in the vicinity of the search operational zone, Flag Officer of Tamil Nadu and Puducherry of Indian Navy Rear Admiral Alokh Bhatnagar from the naval base INS Rajali told AIR News, the aircraft put on search operations are capable of flying under the cloud cover and ships are also deployed in sufficient number that can overcome the problem of visibility.
The defence forces officials are maintaining contact with the families of the 29 officials who were onboard the aircraft.
Talking to media, Indian Air Force PRO Anupam Banerjee said the improved weather and clear sky is facilitating search and rescue operations.
He said it cannot be predicted how long the weather would last and informed that as of now, there is no headway in the search operations.