The CEO of Air Canada, Michael Rousseau, has publicly apologized following significant criticism over a condolence video that did not include French. The backlash stemmed from a tragic incident last week involving a collision between an Air Canada Express aircraft and a fire truck at LaGuardia Airport in New York, which resulted in the deaths of two pilots. In a four-minute video posted shortly after the accident, Rousseau communicated primarily in English, only including two words in French—’Bonjour’ and ‘Merci’. The video featured subtitles in both languages, but this did not appease the public response.

Impact on Language Discussions in Canada

The incident has sparked a larger conversation about language in Canada, crucial due to the nation’s dual official languages: English and French. This discussion is particularly relevant in Quebec, where Air Canada is headquartered and where a significant portion of the population speaks French. The jet was traveling from Montreal, and one of the deceased pilots was identified as a French Canadian.

By March 27, the Office of the Commissioner of Official Languages had recorded 2,195 complaints regarding the video, primarily from individuals upset that Rousseau delivered his condolences without fully utilizing both official languages. Political leaders also expressed strong opinions on the matter, with Prime Minister Mark Carney criticizing the message for lacking compassion. Additionally, Quebec Premier Francois Legault remarked that Rousseau should resign if he was unable to speak French.

Rousseau Responds to Controversy

In a statement issued on Thursday in both English and French, Rousseau extended his apologies and recognized that the uproar detracted from focusing on the victims of the tragedy. He expressed regret over his inability to communicate adequately in French, stating, “Despite many lessons over several years, unfortunately, I am still unable to express myself adequately in French. I sincerely apologize for this, but I am continuing my efforts to improve.” Rousseau conveyed that he was deeply saddened that his language limitations diverted attention from the mourning families and the staff of Air Canada.

Details of the Fatal Incident

The collision occurred on March 22 when an Air Canada Express flight, carrying 72 passengers, struck a fire truck on the runway after landing at LaGuardia Airport. The truck was responding to another incident involving a different aircraft and had been authorized to cross the runway moments before the Air Canada plane touched down.

The two pilots who lost their lives in the accident were Captain Antoine Forest and First Officer Mackenzie Gunther. Approximately 40 individuals received medical attention for injuries sustained during the incident, including two firefighters and a flight attendant who was ejected onto the tarmac while still secured in her seat. Investigators in the United States are actively working to determine the causes behind this tragic collision.

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