Air Canada has appointed Anko Van der Werff, the current chief executive of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), as its next CEO. Van der Werff will assume the role and join the airline's board by the end of January 2027, succeeding Michael Rousseau.
Leadership transition follows controversy
Rousseau, who served as Air Canada's CEO since 2021, announced his retirement on March 30, 2026, following a controversy over his inability to speak French in a video addressing the fatal collision at LaGuardia Airport. The incident drew criticism and prompted the airline to prioritize French-language proficiency in its CEO search.
Global search emphasized French skills
Air Canada stated that Van der Werff's selection came after a comprehensive global search that evaluated candidates on multiple performance criteria, including the ability to communicate in French. The airline operates under federal language laws requiring French services, and the CEO's language capability has become a key consideration for stakeholders.
Van der Werff brings extensive experience in the aviation industry, having led SAS through a major restructuring and recovery. His appointment is expected to provide continuity and strategic direction as Air Canada navigates post-pandemic recovery and ongoing operational challenges.
The transition is scheduled to take place by late January 2027, with further details to be announced in the coming months.
