Air Canada’s chief executive officer Michael Rousseau has issued an apology after delivering an English-only video statement following a deadly crash involving one of the airline’s planes at New York’s LaGuardia Airport.
The crash, which occurred Sunday when an Air Canada aircraft collided with a fire truck on the runway, killed both pilots and injured dozens of others.
Rousseau faced swift backlash, particularly in Quebec, after his public response to the tragedy was delivered only in English despite the airline’s commitment to operate in both of Canada’s official languages.
In a written statement released Thursday, Rousseau acknowledged the criticism and apologized for not addressing the public in French.
“Despite many lessons over several years, unfortunately, I am still unable to express myself adequately in French,” Rousseau said.
“I sincerely apologize for this, but I am continuing my efforts to improve.”
The apology came after intense criticism from political leaders across Canada, with many arguing that the language issue reflected poorly on a national airline that serves a bilingual country.
Quebec Premier François Legault was among the strongest critics, calling for Rousseau’s resignation following the English-only message.
Prime Minister Mark Carney also weighed in, saying the response showed “a lack of compassion” at a time when families and the public were mourning the loss of two young pilots.
The controversy has reignited longstanding debates about language rights and bilingualism in Canada, particularly regarding federally regulated institutions and national corporations like Air Canada.
The airline has not indicated whether Rousseau plans to issue a new video statement in French as investigations into the crash continue.