Michael Rousseau, Air Canada’s CEO, to Step Down Amid Backlash Over Comments After Crash
The New York Times • • business
Key Points:
- Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau announced his retirement by the end of Q3 following criticism over his predominantly English condolence message after a fatal accident at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
- The airline will consider candidates' ability to communicate in French when selecting Rousseau’s successor, reflecting Canada’s bilingual requirements and Air Canada’s Montreal headquarters.
- Rousseau faced backlash for his limited French use in the condolence video after a March 22 crash killed both pilots and injured dozens, with Quebec lawmakers and Canadian politicians calling for his resignation.
- Rousseau apologized, acknowledging that his language shortcomings distracted from the tragedy and the airline’s response, while emphasizing his long tenure at Air Canada since 2007.
