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NTSB to launch second search for El Faro data recorder

The National Transportation Safety Board said it will launch another search for the El Faro’s voyage data recorder.

The NTSB made the announcement on Thursday.

El Faro sank Oct. 1 near the Bahamas with 33 crew members on board during Hurricane Joaquin.

The second search will take place in April and is expected to last about two weeks. The exact date of the search hasn't been announced.

“The voyage data recorder may hold vital information about the challenges encountered by the crew in trying to save the ship,” said NTSB Chairman Christopher A. Hart. “Getting that information could be very helpful to our investigation.”

The cargo ship was found about 15,000 feet below the surface near the Bahamas on Oct. 31. The initial search mission was completed on Nov. 15.

If the VDR is located, another mission using a remotely operated vehicle capable of recovering the recorder will be initiated.