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Air Canada CEO apologizes after English-only condolence video sparks backlash

Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau apologized after posting a four minute condolence video only in English following a LaGuardia runway collision that killed two pilots, prompting criticism from Quebec officials and others as investigators continue their work.

Mar 27th 2026 · Canada

Insights

  • Michael Rousseau apologized, saying his inability to speak French diverted attention from grieving families and staff.
  • Two Air Canada Jazz pilots died when their aircraft struck a fire truck on a LaGuardia runway.
  • One of the deceased pilots was from Quebec, where Air Canada is headquartered in Montreal.
  • Quebec Premier François Legault said Rousseau had pledged to learn French when he was appointed in February 2021.
  • Federal and public figures criticized the unilingual message as insensitive and showing poor judgement.
  • The NTSB is investigating the crash while the FAA confirmed the runway was repaired and safe before reopening.

Sources