Summary
Michael Rousseau, CEO of Air Canada, announced his retirement following criticism for delivering condolences in English after a fatal plane crash involving Air Canada pilots. The backlash was propelled by Canada's emphasis on bilingualism, as Air Canada has historical ties to Canada's government and legal obligations to provide services in both French and English. Rousseau's limited French skills resulted in public discontent, particularly in Quebec, where French is a primary language.
Key Facts
- Michael Rousseau is the CEO of Air Canada.
- He announced his retirement after delivering condolences mostly in English following a fatal crash.
- The crash happened at LaGuardia Airport and killed two pilots.
- Air Canada used to be government-owned and must provide services in both French and English.
- Canada's bilingualism laws require official services in English and French.
- Quebec politicians criticized Rousseau for not using French in formal communications.
- The backlash included complaints to Canada's official languages commissioner.
- Rousseau admitted his French is weak despite taking lessons for years.
