In brief
Michael Rousseau, CEO of Air Canada, will retire by the end of the third quarter of 2026 after a growing controversy surrounding his failure to deliver condolences in French for two pilots killed in a collision at LaGuardia Airport. His English-only message faced significant backlash, notably from Quebec politicians and the Prime Minister. Rousseau acknowledged the criticism, apologized for his language limitations, and stated his ongoing commitment to improving his French skills.
By Nadine Yousif, Senior Canada Reporter
Michael Rousseau, the CEO of Air Canada, has announced his impending retirement following controversy over a condolence video delivered exclusively in English after a tragic incident at LaGuardia Airport that claimed the lives of two pilots. This decision follows mounting pressure from politicians and the public regarding his inadequate French language skills.
He had faced calls for his resignation after the video, where he expressed "deepest sorrow" for the incident, failed to include a French component. One of the deceased pilots, Antoine Forest, hailed from Quebec, heightening the backlash.
Rousseau later apologized for his inadequate expression in French, noting his language skills remained a work in progress despite his past efforts to learn the language.
His retirement announcement came with a message of pride in leading Air Canada, and a commitment to assure a smooth transition during this period.
This incident has raised broader discussions about language policies in corporate Canada, especially emphasizing the importance of bilingualism within a country officially recognizing both English and French.
