MontreaL/IBNS-CMEDIA: Air Canada Chief Executive Michael Rousseau on Wednesday apologised for not speaking French amid criticism, while reiterating condolences to victims of a deadly crash involving an Air Canada Express flight at LaGuardia Airport.
“I want to reiterate my deepest condolences to the families of the Jazz captain and first officer who tragically lost their lives,” Rousseau said in a statement, adding the airline is cooperating with U.S. and Canadian investigators.
Rousseau said his inability to address the public in French had diverted attention from the tragedy. “I sincerely apologize for this, but I am continuing my efforts to improve,” he said.
The March 22 crash involved Air Canada Express Flight 8646, operated by Jazz Aviation, which collided with a ground vehicle while landing at LaGuardia Airport.
Two pilots were killed and dozens of passengers and crew were injured when the aircraft struck a fire truck crossing the runway, according to media reports. The flight from Montreal was carrying 72 passengers and four crew members.
Air Canada said four injured people remain hospitalized, while most of the roughly 40 people taken to hospital have been discharged.
The airline said Wednesday, its maintenance teams are on site and will move the aircraft to a secure hangar once it is safe. It will then begin returning baggage and personal belongings, a process expected to take time.
Transportation Safety Board of Canada and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash.
Early reports suggest a possible breakdown in air traffic control coordination. Audio recordings indicate a ground vehicle had been cleared to cross the runway shortly before the collision, with controllers issuing last-minute warnings seconds before impact.
(Reporting by Suman Das)
