Alaska Airlines Pilot Who Tried to Kill Engine Mid-Flight Claims He's Grown 'as an Individual'

Joseph Emerson, a former Alaska Airlines pilot who attempted to disable the engines of a Horizon Air flight he was riding as a passenger, received a sentence of time served and three years' supervised release. The incident occurred in October 2023 while the flight was en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco. Emerson, who was off-duty at the time, admitted to having ingested psychedelic mushrooms a few days prior and experiencing a nervous breakdown. He was subdued by the flight crew before he could completely shut down the engines.

Judge Amy Baggio cited Emerson's humanity and need for help as factors in her sentencing decision. Emerson himself acknowledged his actions and expressed remorse for their impact. He stated that the experience had forced him to grow as an individual. Emerson spent 46 days in jail before his release in December 2023 while awaiting sentencing.

The FAA (US regulator) has revoked Emerson's pilot and medical certificates, effectively ending his career as a pilot. Alaska Airlines also terminated his employment, and he faces a potential fine of up to $250,000. Despite the severity of his actions and their potential consequences, the court emphasized rehabilitation and personal growth in its sentencing decision.

Emerson's wife spoke in support of her husband, highlighting the positive changes he had undergone since the incident. The case raises questions about mental health within the aviation industry and the potential impact of substance use on pilot performance. It also underscores the importance of crew intervention in preventing catastrophic events.