India, March 30 -- Air Canada announced on Monday that its CEO, Michael Rousseau, will step down later this year, following backlash regarding his English-only condolence message after the tragic death of two pilots in a collision at LaGuardia Airport in New York.

The largest airline in Canada, headquartered in Montreal, which is located in the predominantly French-speaking province of Quebec, stated that Rousseau informed the board of his intention to retire by the conclusion of the third quarter.

Vagn Sorenson, the chairman of Air Canada's board of directors, expressed gratitude to Rousseau for his extensive service as chief financial officer, deputy CEO, and ultimately as CEO.

"We are grateful for the determined leadership he has pr...