Premier League team Queens Park Rangers (QPR) has announced a new shirt sponsorship deal with carriers Malaysia Airlines and Air Asia.

BBC: QPR sign sponsorship deal with two Asian airlines

Shortly afterward, air traffic controllers in Malaysia lost contact with the plane somewhere over the sea between Malaysia and Vietnam.

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And Lotus team principal Tony Fernandes said on his Twitter page that personnel from the Ferrari, Renault, Mercedes, Sauber and Toro Rosso teams were flying on his Air Asia airline to Malaysia before heading back to the UK on a special charter when the airports open.

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Malaysia Airlines will appear on the home kit, while Air Asia features on the west London side's two away kits.

BBC: QPR sign sponsorship deal with two Asian airlines

Malaysian state investment firm Khazanah Nasional, which owns close to 70% of Malaysia Airlines, will get a 10% stake of Air Asia.

BBC: QPR sign sponsorship deal with two Asian airlines

In return the major shareholder in Air Asia, Tune Air, will get a 20% stake in Malaysia Airlines.

BBC: QPR sign sponsorship deal with two Asian airlines

While Lion Air serves some international destinations, including Singapore and Malaysia, more than 90% of its seats are on domestic flights.

WSJ: Lion Air Jet Order Stirs Concern Over Glut in Southeast Asia

And the rivalry doesn't stop at sea - Malaysia is also looking to promote itself as a hub for air transport.

BBC: Port of Singapore faces new rival

AirAsia has delivered huge benefits to Malaysia by bringing in foreign tourists, creating jobs and cutting the cost of air travel.

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The remains of eight Royal Air Force crew members who died in a 1945 plane crash have been buried in Malaysia.

BBC: Malaysia burial for RAF crew killed in 1945