Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau will leave his position by the end of 2026, ending a nearly two-decade run at the airline. The announcement follows mounting criticism over his repeated failure to become proficient in French, despite promising to do so years ago. While the company frames this as a planned retirement, the move comes after renewed pressure from Quebec politicians and public figures regarding his language skills.
The Language Issue and Its Importance
The controversy surrounding Rousseau’s French proficiency is significant because Air Canada is headquartered in Montreal, a predominantly French-speaking city. His repeated inability to speak the language fluently despite living in Quebec for years has been seen as a sign of disrespect by many, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who publicly addressed the issue. This matters because language proficiency is often viewed as a matter of cultural sensitivity and respect in a bilingual country like Canada.
Internal and External Succession Plans
Air Canada has been preparing for this transition for over two years, with an internal development program aimed at grooming high-potential executives. Simultaneously, an external search began in January 2026 to identify additional candidates. The airline explicitly states that fluency in French will be a key consideration in selecting a replacement.
Potential Candidates
Two internal candidates are viewed as strong contenders: Mark Galardo and Mark Nasr, both in their 40s. They are seen as capable leaders who have contributed significantly to the airline’s recent performance. Alternatively, Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith, a former Air Canada executive fluent in both English and French, could be considered, though it would likely require a substantial offer to lure him back to Canada. Another potential external candidate is WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech, also bilingual, but his unique value compared to the internal options remains unclear.
Leadership Critique
Beyond the language issue, Rousseau’s leadership style has also been questioned. Some observers criticize his perceived lack of decisive action and overall impact on the airline. The board, however, acknowledges his role in navigating crises like the 2008 financial collapse, the COVID-19 pandemic, and securing pension solvency.
Conclusion
Michael Rousseau’s departure marks a turning point for Air Canada. The search for his successor will be closely watched, with French fluency and strong leadership skills being paramount. The company’s choice will not only impact its corporate performance but also its reputation in a culturally diverse nation.
