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This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.

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Malaysia Airlines: Jet owned by 'Hobbit' director Peter Jackson joins search

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"The Hobbit" and "The Lord of the Rings" director Sir Peter Jackson's private business jet—a Gulfstream G650—is joining forces to aid in the search for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, according to NBC LA. 

Jackson's $80 million jet serves as a communications relay for those searching for the missing Boeing 777 and is able to travel up to 8,000 miles without the need to refuel, reports NBC LA. The jet is able to carry eight passengers and four crew members, according to the Gulfstream's website. 

RELATED: Malaysia Airlines: Missing flight crashed in Indian Ocean (updated)

The Malaysian Digest says: 

According to the Gulfstream website, the jet has high speed capacity and able to fly far distances, enabling Jackson to make non-stop journey from Wellington, New Zealand to Los Angeles, California where most of his movies are shot.

A spokesman for Sir Peter Wednesday confirmed a civilian aircraft involved in the search had been charted from the film director but declined to say what payment was being offered for the charter, or whether the jet had been offered or was requested, the New Zealand Herald reported. 

Other actors who have joined the search include singer-actress Courtney Love who posted this update to her Facebook page saying, "I'm no expert but up close this does look like a plane and an oil slick."

 

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Post by Courtney Love.
 
Flight MH370 disappeared on a March 8 flight carrying 239 people to Beijing from Kaula Lumpur.

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