Why is the Sports World in Shock Over the Ahmedabad Plane Crash?

Synopsis
The Indian sports community is mourning the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad, which claimed the lives of 242 individuals. Athletes from various disciplines have come forward to express their condolences and support for the victims' families. This incident has not only shocked the sports fraternity but has also united them in grief and compassion during this difficult time.
Key Takeaways
- The plane crash in Ahmedabad involved Air India's Flight AI171.
- 242 individuals lost their lives in this tragic incident.
- The sports community has come together in support and mourning.
- Air India is providing assistance to the families of the victims.
- Efforts to improve aviation safety are crucial.
New Delhi, June 12 (NationPress) The devastating news of a plane crash in Ahmedabad has profoundly shaken the Indian sports community, leading athletes to share their condolences and support for the passengers, crew, and their families. Air India's London-bound Flight AI171 tragically went down close to Ahmedabad airport on Thursday afternoon. Air India has confirmed that flight AI171, operating from Ahmedabad to London Gatwick, was carrying a total of 242 individuals, including passengers and crew members aboard the Boeing 787-8.
Among those on board, there were 169 Indian nationals, 53 British nationals, 1 Canadian national, and 7 Portuguese nationals. Air India has established a dedicated hotline at 1800 5691 444 to assist with further inquiries.
Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh expressed his sorrow via X, stating, "I am utterly shocked and deeply anguished to learn about the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers go out to all the victims and their families who are enduring unimaginable pain and loss."
P.V. Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist shuttler, remarked, "Deeply saddened by the tragic crash of Air India flight AI 171 from Ahmedabad to London today, June 12, 2025. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of all 242 souls on board. May love surround every grieving heart and strength find those left behind."
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla also conveyed his condolences, stating, "Deeply shocked & heartbroken to learn about the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts are with the passengers, crew & their families as they face this unimaginable tragedy. In times like these, our hearts must come together in compassion for all who are suffering."
Bajrang Punia, an Olympic medalist wrestler, shared, "This is a very sad accident. May God give place to all the departed souls at His feet." Yusuf Pathan, a former allrounder, expressed, "Very shocked to hear about the #AirIndia Ahmedabad-London flight incident near Ahmedabad airport. Praying for the safety of all passengers and crew."
Irfan Pathan, another former allrounder, added, "Deeply saddened by the Air India flight crash in Ahmedabad today. Prayers for the passengers, crew, and their families." Shikhar Dhawan, a former opener, expressed, "Deeply saddened to hear about the plane crash in Gujarat. May families find strength in this unimaginably difficult time." Mohammed Shami, a pacer, shared, "Pray for all the families."
All Indian Premier League franchises expressed their shock over the tragic event. "We are deeply saddened by the plane crash in Ahmedabad. We pray for everyone affected and their families," Gujarat Titans posted on X. Mumbai Indians added, "Prayers and strength for everyone affected by the tragic plane crash in Ahmedabad." Chennai Super Kings shared, "Our thoughts are with the passengers, crew, and the families impacted by the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash. You are in our hearts and prayers." Punjab Kings stated, "A heartbreaking tragedy in Ahmedabad. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the passengers, crew, and their families."