Air Canada boss stands down after ‘inability to speak French’ diverts attention away from fatal crash

The boss of Air Canada is to stand down following an admission that he was unable to express himself “adequately” in French when responding to the deadly runway collision at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.

Chief executive Michael Rousseau announced he would be leaving at the end of the summer.

This came after he responded to the accident last month, saying: “As president and chief executive Officer of Air Canada, it is my duty to support those affected by this tragedy.

“I am deeply saddened that my inability to speak French has diverted attention from the profound grief of the families and the great resilience of Air Canada’s employees, who have demonstrated outstanding professionalism despite the events of the past few days.

“Despite many lessons over several years, unfortunately, I am still unable to express myself adequately in French. I sincerely apologize for this, but I am continuing my efforts to improve.”

The Canadian flag carrier confirmed on Monday that Rousseau had informed the board of directors that he will retire by the end of the third quarter of the year.

He will continue to lead the company and to serve on the board until that time.

Air Canada praised Rousseau’s nearly two decades of “strong and dedicated leadership that has reinforced Air Canada’s place as a leader in the airline industry domestically and globally”.

A statement added: “The board has had a longstanding focus on CEO succession planning. Consistent with this priority, work has been underway for more than two years on a comprehensive internal development program for high potential executives.

“An external global search was also commenced in January 2026 to identify potential additional candidates with the skills, and experience to lead Canada’s national airline.

“The board will consider a number of performance criteria in assessing candidates including the ability to communicate in French. Mr Rousseau has agreed to remain available as needed to ensure a seamless and smooth transition.”

Airline chair Vagn Sorensen said: “On behalf of the entire board, I want to thank Mike for his many contributions to Air Canada as he progressed from chief financial officer to Deputy CEO and then to CEO and board member.

“We are grateful for the determined leadership he has provided not only in steering our company through the 2007-2008 financial crisis, Covid and other challenges, but also in capturing opportunities such as the acquisition of Aeroplan, in restoring the solvency of our pension plans and in advancing customer centricity and employee well-being priorities.”

Rousseau said: “It has been my great honour to work with the dedicated and talented people of Air Canada and to represent our outstanding organisation, including as chair of the Star Alliance chief executive board and on the board of directors of the International Air Transport Association. 

“I look forward to supporting our company during this important transition period.”