PORTLAND, Ore. — Joseph Emerson, a former pilot for Alaska Airlines who attempted to disable the engines of a passenger flight while off-duty, is scheduled for sentencing in federal court on Monday. In September, Emerson pleaded guilty to federal charges and no-contest to state charges stemming from the incident on October 22, 2023, during a Horizon Air flight between Everett, Washington, and San Francisco.
Prosecutors have asked for a year in prison for Emerson, while his defense team has requested probation instead. The incident raised serious concerns about cockpit safety protocols and the mental health of airline pilots.
During the flight, Emerson tried to pull two red handles located in the cockpit, which would have activated the fire suppression system and cut off fuel to the engines. Luckily, the flight crew was able to contain the situation before it resulted in any harm, and the airplane safely landed in Portland with over 80 passengers on board.
After his arrest, Emerson disclosed to police that he was in a distressed state, having taken psychedelic mushrooms days prior and mourning a friend's recent death. He indicated he believed he was dreaming when he attempted to disable the aircraft’s engines. Following the incident, he was released pending a trial slated for December 2023, under strict conditions including remaining drug-free and avoiding aircraft.
In state court, Emerson was sentenced to 50 days in jail, credited for time served, in addition to five years probation, and $60,000 in restitution to Alaska Air Group. Notably, he founded a non-profit aimed at pilot health following his arrest. Emerson expressed gratitude towards the flight crew, saying that their actions saved lives and forced him to confront his mental health issues.
As federal prosecutors urge for a year-long prison sentence, they highlighted that the heroic actions of the crew are what prevented a potential disaster. Emerson's case has reignited discussions regarding the mental fitness and oversight of individuals allowed in airplane cockpits.
