**Excerpt:** Michael Rousseau announces his retirement following criticism for delivering a condolence message in English only after a fatal crash involving Air Canada.
Key Points
– Michael Rousseau will retire as CEO of Air Canada by the end of September 2026.
– His decision comes after backlash over an English-only condolence video after a deadly crash.
– The crash occurred on March 22, killing two pilots in New York.
– Air Canada is legally required to provide bilingual services in English and French.
– The airline will seek a new CEO who can communicate effectively in French.
Background
Michael Rousseau, the CEO of Air Canada, has announced his retirement, effective by the end of September 2026. This decision follows significant criticism regarding his English-only condolence message after a tragic crash involving an Air Canada Jazz flight.
The Incident
On March 22, 2026, an Air Canada Jazz flight from Montreal collided with a fire-rescue vehicle upon arrival at New York’s LaGuardia Airport, resulting in the deaths of both pilots, Antoine Forest and Mackenzie Gunther. Following the incident, Rousseau issued a video message expressing condolences solely in English, accompanied by French subtitles, which drew heavy criticism.
Reaction to the Message
The backlash was swift, with Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighting the lack of compassion in the message. Critics, including Quebec’s premier, demanded Rousseau’s resignation. The Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages reported receiving hundreds of complaints about the message.
Air Canada’s Response
In response to the situation, Air Canada reaffirmed its commitment to bilingual service, as required by Canadian law. The airline is now in search of a new CEO who possesses the capability to communicate in both English and French.
Legacy and Future
Rousseau, who has been with Air Canada in various roles since before his appointment as CEO in February 2021, had previously pledged to improve his French language skills. Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon acknowledged Rousseau’s contributions and emphasized the government’s commitment to ensure Air Canada maintains safe and reliable bilingual service for all Canadians.
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