Air Canada has announced the appointment of Anko Van der Werff as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective by the end of January 2027. Van der Werff, currently serving as President and CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), will succeed Michael Rousseau, who has announced his retirement after 19 years with Air Canada.
The decision to appoint Van der Werff follows a comprehensive global search conducted by Air Canada's Board of Directors. Vagn Sørensen, Chair of the Board, expressed confidence in Van der Werff's leadership, highlighting his exceptional breadth of international aviation experience and a proven 25-year track record. Van der Werff's previous roles include CEO positions at Avianca Group and Aerom xico, as well as senior leadership roles at KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Qatar Airways.
In his new role, Van der Werff is expected to lead Air Canada through its next phase of growth and transformation. He expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity, stating, "It is an honor to be chosen to lead this iconic Canadian company as it advances its ambitions and strategy." Van der Werff is set to relocate to Montr al and is eager to begin his tenure with Air Canada.
Michael Rousseau's retirement is effective August 31, 2026. He will remain available during the transition period to ensure a smooth handover of responsibilities. The Board of Directors expressed gratitude for Rousseau's outstanding leadership and contributions, which have significantly contributed to Air Canada's position among global carriers.
Van der Werff holds a master's degree in law from Leiden University and has completed executive studies at Harvard Business School. A native of the Netherlands, he is proficient in Dutch, English, and French, and has learned Spanish, Italian, and Swedish during his international career.
This leadership change comes after a period of scrutiny regarding Air Canada's language policies. In March 2026, Rousseau announced his retirement following criticism over a condolence video that was predominantly in English, which sparked controversy in Quebec due to the province's French-speaking majority.
Van der Werff's appointment is seen as a strategic move to address these concerns, given his proficiency in French and his extensive international experience. Air Canada aims to strengthen its commitment to bilingualism and enhance its presence in both English and French-speaking markets.
The airline industry is closely watching this transition, as Air Canada continues to navigate challenges and opportunities in the evolving global aviation landscape. Stakeholders are optimistic that Van der Werff's leadership will guide Air Canada toward sustained success and growth.
As Van der Werff prepares to take the helm, the aviation community anticipates a new chapter for Air Canada, marked by strategic initiatives and a renewed focus on customer service excellence.
Air Canada remains committed to its mission of connecting people and communities, and with Van der Werff's leadership, the airline is poised to continue its legacy of innovation and service in the years to come.
The Board of Directors and the entire Air Canada team look forward to welcoming Van der Werff and working together to achieve the airline's strategic objectives and deliver value to shareholders and customers alike.
This leadership change signifies a pivotal moment for Air Canada, as it seeks to build on its strengths and address past challenges to position itself as a leading global airline.
Van der Werff's appointment is expected to bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to Air Canada's operations, fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity within the organization.
As the transition period unfolds, stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed about developments and support Air Canada's journey toward a successful future under new leadership.
Air Canada remains dedicated to its core values and is confident that Van der Werff's leadership will steer the airline toward continued success and growth in the competitive aviation industry.
The airline's commitment to innovation, customer service, and operational excellence will continue to be at the forefront of its strategic initiatives as it enters this new era.
Air Canada expresses gratitude to Michael Rousseau for his years of service and leadership, and wishes him well in his future endeavors. The airline is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead with Anko Van der Werff at the helm.
Air Canada remains committed to providing exceptional service to its customers and looks forward to a bright future under new leadership.
The airline's dedication to safety, reliability, and customer satisfaction will continue to guide its operations as it moves forward.
Air Canada is confident that Anko Van der Werff's leadership will usher in a new era of growth and success for the airline.
The Board of Directors and the entire Air Canada team are excited to work with Van der Werff to achieve the airline's strategic objectives and deliver value to shareholders and customers alike.
This leadership change marks a significant milestone for Air Canada, and the airline is poised to embark on a new chapter of innovation and excellence in the aviation industry.
Air Canada remains dedicated to its mission of connecting people and communities, and with Van der Werff's leadership, the airline is well-positioned to continue its legacy of service and success.
The airline industry is closely watching this transition, and stakeholders are optimistic about the future of Air Canada under new leadership.
Air Canada expresses its gratitude to Michael Rousseau for his years