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Air Canada CEO issues apology over language controversy
Michael Rousseau expressed regret on Thursday for releasing a condolence message in English only following a fatal collision at New York's LaGuardia Airport that killed two pilots. The incident sparked criticism from Canadian officials and calls for his resignation.
Background to the controversy
The dispute centres on Rousseau's decision to deliver a video statement exclusively in English after Sunday's crash, which claimed the lives of pilots Antoine Forest, a French Canadian, and Mackenzie Gunther. The flight originated in Montreal and was operated by Jazz Aviation under Air Canada.
While the video included French subtitles, critics argued the gesture fell short of Canada's bilingual expectations, particularly given Air Canada's legal obligations under the Official Languages Act. The airline, privatised in 1988, remains required to communicate in both English and French.
Political and public backlash
Quebec Premier François Legault suggested Rousseau should resign if he cannot speak French, while Prime Minister Mark Carney described the English-only message as demonstrating "a lack of compassion." The parliamentary Committee on Official Languages summoned Rousseau to testify before lawmakers regarding his decision.
Rousseau, an anglophone who resides in Montreal, has faced similar scrutiny since his 2021 appointment as CEO. He previously apologised for his limited French proficiency and pledged to improve, though his latest statement acknowledged ongoing struggles despite years of lessons.
Rousseau's response
In a written statement released in both languages on Thursday, Rousseau said he was "deeply saddened" that his language limitations had "diverted attention" from the grieving families and Air Canada employees. He reiterated his commitment to improving his French but did not address calls for his resignation.
"I sincerely apologise for this, but I am continuing my efforts to improve."
Michael Rousseau, Air Canada CEO
Details of the crash
The collision occurred shortly after the Air Canada flight landed at LaGuardia, when the aircraft struck a fire truck that had been cleared to cross the runway. Investigators released cockpit voice recordings and air traffic control communications on Tuesday, revealing a controller had authorised both the plane and the truck to proceed moments before impact.
Dozens of passengers were injured, with four remaining hospitalised as of Wednesday. Operations at the airport were temporarily scaled back, though authorities announced plans to reopen the affected runway by Friday morning after removing the damaged aircraft.
Broader implications
The incident has reignited debates about bilingualism in Canada's corporate leadership, particularly in federally regulated industries. Rousseau's case highlights tensions between linguistic expectations and executive accountability in a country where French and English hold equal official status.
