Michael Rousseau is a Canadian business executive best known for serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. Throughout his career, he has played a significant role in the airline’s financial transformation and long-term strategic development, establishing himself as one of Canada’s leading corporate executives.
Born in 1958 in Cornwall, Ontario, Rousseau earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from York University. He began his career in accounting and finance, holding senior financial positions at several major Canadian companies before becoming President of the Hudson’s Bay Company. In 2007, he joined Air Canada as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, where he helped guide the airline through a period of significant growth and modernization.
In February 2021, Rousseau was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. During his leadership, the airline continued its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, expanded its international network, strengthened its financial position, and invested in customer experience and sustainability initiatives. He also served as Chair of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board, reflecting his influence within the global aviation industry.
In 2026, Air Canada announced that Rousseau would retire after nearly two decades with the company, with a leadership transition planned for early 2027. His tenure is widely associated with the airline’s long-term transformation and its position as Canada’s largest international carrier.
With extensive experience in finance, corporate strategy, and aviation, Michael Rousseau is regarded as one of Canada’s most accomplished business leaders. His contributions have had a lasting impact on Air Canada’s growth and on the broader Canadian airline industry.
