Air Canada has begun the search for a new leader — one who can speak French — after the current CEO, English-only speaking Michael Rousseau, informed the board of directors of his retirement later this year. Rousseau came under fire last week after posting an English-only video offering his condolences for the loss of two pilots who were killed in the March 22 crash at LaGuardia Airport in New York City. The only French words used in the three-minute and 45-second video post to social media on Monday were “bonjour” (hello) and “merci” (thank you). Antoine Forest, Air Canada pilot who was killed in the runway crash at New York’s LaGuardia airport on Sunday, March 22, 2026. For his part, Rousseau said it was a “great honour” to work alongside Air Canada’s staff and looks forward to assisting in the transition.

Source: National Post March 30, 2026 18:05 UTC