Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau to retire by end of Q3 amid language controversy

Air Canada says chief executive officer Michael Rousseau will retire by the end of the third quarter of this year, according to a company statement.

The announcement follows criticism earlier this month over a video message Rousseau delivered after a deadly plane crash in New York that killed two Air Canada Express pilots. The four-minute condolence video, posted online, included only limited French, using the words “bonjour” and “merci.”

Prime Minister Mark Carney said the decision to release the message primarily in English showed a “lack of judgment and lack of compassion,” highlighting ongoing expectations around bilingual communication at federally regulated companies.

Air Canada said its board of directors will begin assessing candidates for the next chief executive. According to the company, criteria will include the ability to communicate in French, alongside leadership and operational experience.

Rousseau has led Air Canada since February 2021, after previously serving as deputy chief executive and chief financial officer.