Air Canada CEO Apologizes for English-Only Condolence

0:00It's March 26. This is Global News Today World Coverage, powered by AI. Air Canada CEO Michael Russo issued an apology after facing backlash for a condolence video in English only, following a fatal crash at LaGuardia Airport. The incident Sunday night involved the plane from Montreal colliding with a fire truck right after landing, killing two pilots and injuring dozens of passengers. Russo explained that despite years of French lessons, he cannot express himself well in the language, an official one in Canada. He said his choice to vertifocus from the grieving families and staff, especially since one pilot Antoine Forrest, was French Canadian. Political leaders weighed in sharply. Prime Minister Mark Carney called the English only message a lack of compassion, while Quebec Premier, Francois Legault, suggested Russo, should. Resign if he cannot speak French. This is not the first time he faced similar criticism when appointed CEO in 2021.

1:01Now, a parliamentary committee has summoned Russo to explain himself. Air Canada, bound by official languages rules, makes on-board announcements in both English and French. Investigators released cockpit and tower audio from the final three minutes, showing clearance for both the plane and truck before a last second stop. Call. Meanwhile, the damaged plane was towed away Thursday, with the runway expected to reopen no later than Friday morning. The probe into the crash continues as Air Canada supports those impacted.