Air Canada CEO Apologizes for English-Only Message

Michael Rousseau says his French is weak despite years of lessons.

Mar. 26, 2026 at 9:31pm

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Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau apologized after facing backlash over a condolence video recorded only in English following a deadly collision at New York's LaGuardia Airport. Critics said the omission of French, an official language in Canada, showed disrespect. Rousseau acknowledged his inability to speak French has diverted attention from the grief of the victims' families and the resilience of Air Canada's employees. He pledged to keep studying French but did not address calls for him to step down.

Why it matters

As the head of a major Canadian airline, Rousseau's failure to communicate in both of Canada's official languages has sparked outrage, particularly in French-speaking Quebec where the plane departed from. The controversy has drawn the attention of Parliament's Official Languages Committee, underscoring the importance of linguistic duality in the country.

The details

In his written statement, Rousseau said he is "deeply saddened" that his lack of French proficiency has overshadowed the tragedy of the accident and the efforts of Air Canada employees. He attributed his weak French skills to "many lessons over several years" despite living in Montreal. The incident has renewed calls for Rousseau to step down from his position, which he did not address in his apology.

  • The deadly collision at New York's LaGuardia Airport occurred on March 26, 2026.

The players

Michael Rousseau

The CEO of Air Canada who faced backlash for releasing a condolence video in English only following a deadly accident.

Mark Carney

The Prime Minister of Canada who criticized Rousseau for the English-only message.

François Legault

The Premier of Quebec, where the plane departed from, who also called out Rousseau for the lack of French in his statement.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Michael Rousseau, CEO, Air Canada

What’s next

The Official Languages Committee of the Canadian Parliament has summoned Rousseau to testify about the incident.

The takeaway

This controversy highlights the importance of linguistic duality in Canada and the expectations placed on leaders of major national institutions to communicate effectively in both of the country's official languages, especially during times of crisis.