Malaysia Airlines flight MH17, which was on a scheduled flight from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur was shot down in eastern Ukraine as claimed by various news agencies. The fatal attack was most likely carried by a surface to air missile. Ukrainian, Russian and rebel leaders deny their involvement in this sabotage but possibility of separatists carrying out this attack is not ruled out.

The flight was carrying a total number of 298 people – comprising 283 passengers including three infants of various nationalities and 15 crew of Malaysian nationality. Some of the nationalities of the passengers are yet to be determined. All the world leaders have strongly condemned this act of terrorism.

Most of the international airlines including India’s Air India and Jet Airways have altered their usual flight path and are avoiding flying over Ukrainian air space for the time being.

Families of passengers and crew may contact Malaysian Airlines at +603 7884 1234 (Malaysia) or +31703487770 (Netherlands) for regular updates.