The underwater search for missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has ended in failure, leaving one of the world’s greatest aviation mysteries unsolved almost three years after the aircraft disappeared.

In a joint statement on Tuesday, China, Malaysia and Australia said they were suspending the operation and the last vessel had left the 120,000 sq km underwater search area without being able to locate the plane. 

“Despite every effort using the best science available, cutting-edge technology, as well as modelling and advice from highly skilled professionals who are the best in their field?.?.?.?the search has not been able to locate the aircraft,” said the Joint Agency Co-ordination Centre, which led the search. “Accordingly, the underwater search for MH370 has been suspended.”