Air Canada says CEO Michael Rousseau will retire by Q4

Air Canada (ACDVF) announced that Michael Rousseau has informed the board that he will retire by the end of Q3. The company said “The Board has had a longstanding focus on CEO succession planning. Consistent with this priority, work has been underway for more than two years on a comprehensive internal development program for high potential executives. An external global search was also commenced in January 2026 to identify potential additional candidates with the skills, and experience to lead Canada’s national airline, proudly headquartered in Montreal, Quebec. The Board will consider a number of performance criteria in assessing candidates including the ability to communicate in French. Mr. Rousseau has agreed to remain available as needed to ensure a seamless and smooth transition.” According to multiple reports, Rousseau was widely criticized for a lack of French in his condolence video following a plane crash that killed two Air Canada Express pilots.