BEIJING - Chinese families are seeking compensation and the truth regarding the fate of their loved ones nearly a decade after Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 vanished, marking one of the aviation industry's most perplexing mysteries.

The Boeing 777 flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing disappeared on March 8, 2014, shortly after takeoff, and is believed to have crashed into the Indian Ocean. Despite extensive international search efforts, only a few scattered plane parts found on beaches have been discovered, leaving investigators unable to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.

With more than 150 Chinese citizens among the 239 passengers and crew members on board, Chinese state media reported that over 40 families, who have yet to reach a settlement with Malaysia Airlines, are demanding compensation ranging from 10 million to 80 million yuan ($1.4 million to $11.2 million). The claim includes the loss of their loved ones, as well as the resulting mental anguish and financial hardships endured.

The compensation hearings commenced on Monday at the Chaoyang District People's Court in Beijing, attracting significant police presence and media attention. The families are suing Malaysia Airlines, its corporate predecessor, Boeing, British engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce, and German insurer Allianz.

While a Boeing spokesperson expressed the company's continued sympathies toward those affected by the MH370 tragedy, there was no immediate response from the other implicated entities.

Concerns have been raised over the alleged unreasonable conditions and tactics employed by Malaysia Airlines when providing compensation. Jiang Hui, a spokesperson for the families, claimed that the airline has absolved itself of responsibility, leading to the initiation of the long-standing legal proceedings.

Jiang anticipated that these hearings would be a "turning point" in the case, emphasizing its clarity and the need for fair and transparent treatment. Media and family members were denied access to the courtroom without explanation, prompting confusion and helplessness among the plaintiffs.

In addition to compensation, the families are also demanding funds for continued search efforts and mental health services for affected family members.

The most recent search attempt for the missing plane occurred in 2018 by Ocean Infinity, a marine robotics company based in Austin, Texas. The company expressed its commitment to conducting a new search on a "no find, no fee" basis.

In an open letter addressed to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, relatives of the Chinese passengers expressed their willingness to finance or collaborate on a search operation, citing technological advancements that have significantly reduced costs.

Hu Xiufang, a 72-year-old mother who lost her son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter in the tragedy, expressed the urgency for closure and accountability. She lamented the lack of support from the Chinese government and Malaysia Airlines, emphasizing her determination to find her family and receive a suitable explanation for the incident.

China's Foreign Ministry acknowledged the MH370 incident on Monday, highlighting the importance of further follow-up and urging communication and proper handling of the matter by all parties involved. The Malaysian Ministry of Transport did not respond to requests for comment.

The Beijing hearings are expected to continue until mid-December, with family members remaining resolute in their quest to find the truth behind the fate of MH370. Despite the passing years, their unwavering intention to locate the plane and retrieve their loved ones persists.