Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau Steps Down Amid Operational Struggles

Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau Steps Down Amid Operational Struggles...

Air Canada CEO Michael Rousseau has resigned effective immediately, the airline announced Tuesday, following months of operational challenges and customer dissatisfaction. The departure comes as the carrier faces mounting pressure over flight delays, baggage mishandling, and labor disputes that have drawn scrutiny from U.S. travelers and regulators.

Rousseau, who took over as CEO in February 2021, faced criticism for the airline's uneven pandemic recovery and recent service disruptions. His exit follows a turbulent winter season where Air Canada ranked among North America’s worst-performing carriers for on-time arrivals, according to Cirium data. The trend particularly impacted U.S. hubs like Newark and Chicago, where Air Canada operates key transborder routes.

The news is trending in the U.S. as American passengers account for nearly 40% of Air Canada’s international traffic. Many took to social media this week to share frustration over recent experiences, with some tagging the U.S. Department of Transportation in complaints. The DOT has opened 18 investigations into Air Canada since 2023 regarding refund delays and accessibility violations.

Interim leadership will be assumed by Chief Financial Officer Amos Kazzaz while the board searches for a permanent replacement. Industry analysts suggest the next CEO will need to address strained pilot relations after 2025 contract negotiations stalled. Air Canada shares fell 3.2% in premarket trading following the announcement.

The airline confirmed operations continue uninterrupted during the transition. However, consumer advocates warn that leadership changes alone won’t resolve systemic issues that have left some U.S. passengers waiting months for lost luggage compensation. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s office confirmed it’s monitoring the situation closely given Air Canada’s significant U.S. route network.