Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau will remain in his role as president and chief executive officer until later this year, as the company carries out a leadership transition.
The airline confirmed Monday that Rousseau plans to step down by the end of the third quarter of 2026. He will remain in his role as president and chief executive officer until then, as the company carries out a leadership transition.
The retirement announcement comes days after criticism over a video message Rousseau delivered following the Air Canada Express Flight 8646 crash at LaGuardia Airport, which killed both pilots and left more than 40 people injured. The message was delivered almost entirely in English, prompting complaints and political reaction.
“The ten elected members of the committee unanimously adopted a motion to ask the CEO of Air Canada to come and explain himself,” the Official Languages Committee said in a statement.
By Tuesday afternoon, the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages had received 84 complaints tied to the video.
“In light of this sad and gross lack of respect towards the loved ones and family of the pilot from Coteau-du-Lac, Antoine Forest, a French-speaking Quebecer, the head of Air Canada must very seriously ask himself whether he has not clearly disqualified himself for the position he holds,” Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet wrote in an online post.
Air Canada said Rousseau recorded the message before departing for the crash site and used subtitles to ensure accessibility in both English and French.
Separately, the airline’s board said it has been preparing for a leadership transition for more than two years. The process includes an internal development program for senior executives and an external global search launched in January 2026.
The board said it will evaluate candidates based on several factors, including their ability to communicate in French. Rousseau has agreed to remain available to support a smooth transition.
“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,” said Vagn Sørensen, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Our upcoming AGM will allow us to further recognize his achievements which include a legacy of financial strength,” he added.
“It has been my great honour to work with the dedicated and talented people of Air Canada and to represent our outstanding organization, including as chair of the Star Alliance chief executive board and on the board of directors of the International Air Transport Association,” said Mr. Rousseau. “I look forward to supporting our company during this important transition period.”
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