Titanic tourist submersible missing at Titanic site

A search and rescue operation is currently underway off the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, as authorities are searching for a missing submersible that is used for tours to explore the wreckage of the Titanic.

The US Coast Guard, along with the Canadian Coast Guard and the Royal Canadian Air Force, are leading the mission. The 21-foot submersible and its crew of five lost contact with a Canadian research vessel during a dive on Sunday. OceanGate Expeditions, the company that owns the vessel, confirmed their disappearance and stated that its main objective is the safety of the crew and their families.

The Coast Guard, with support from the Halifax Joint Rescue Coordination Center, is using aircraft and underwater detection capabilities in its search efforts. The mission aims to locate the missing submersible and ensure the well-being of the crew.

OceanGate, which specializes in deep-sea exploration, had planned to launch its Titanic expedition in June. As the search continues, military aircraft and ships have been deployed to help locate the vessel.

Missing Submersible: Rescue underway

David Concannon, an adviser to OceanGate, revealed that the missing submersible had a 96-hour supply of oxygen as of about 6 a.m. Sunday. Concannon mentioned that he was initially scheduled to be a part of the dive, but was unable to attend due to another commitment. Efforts are underway to rapidly deploy a remotely operated vehicle capable of reaching depths of 6,000 meters (around 20,000 feet) at the site.

OceanGate expeditions to the Titanic wreck site typically involve a team of archaeologists and marine biologists, along with paying participants called "mission specialists." These people take turns operating the sonar equipment and performing various tasks inside the five-person submersible. OceanGate expressed its utmost concern for the well-being of those on board and their families, and thanked government agencies and deepwater companies for their extensive assistance in search and rescue efforts.

Hamish Harding, a UK businessman, was among the mission specialists, according to Action Aviation, a company of which Harding is chairman. Mark Butler, managing director of Action Aviation, confirmed that the crew embarked on their journey on Friday.

Butler said that "there is plenty of time to facilitate a rescue mission, since the sub is equipped with survival gear. Everyone involved remains hopeful and keeps their thoughts and prayers focused on a safe return".

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