Former pilot who tried to shut down engines on flight sentenced in federal case

Joseph Emerson, a former Alaska Airlines pilot, received a sentence of time served and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to interfering with a flight crew. Emerson, while off-duty and traveling in the cockpit jump seat on a Horizon Air flight, attempted to cut fuel to both engines, prompting an emergency landing. The incident occurred in October 2023, and Emerson attributed his actions to the aftereffects of consuming psilocybin mushrooms.

The sentencing took place in federal court in Portland, Oregon. Prosecutors sought a year in prison, but the judge opted for a lighter sentence, citing Emerson's mental health struggles and the need to encourage pilots to seek help without fear of punishment. The flight crew's heroic actions in restraining Emerson and restoring the aircraft's operations were credited with preventing a potential disaster.

Emerson's defense argued that he had already faced significant consequences, including the loss of his career and pilot certifications. They emphasized his commitment to sobriety and his efforts to become a substance abuse counselor. The judge also acknowledged the rarity of the hallucinogen persisting perception disorder, which Emerson claimed to be suffering from at the time of the incident.

The case has sparked debate about pilot mental health and the importance of transparency within the aviation industry. A fellow pilot testified on Emerson's behalf, arguing that punitive measures could deter pilots from seeking necessary medical assistance. Emerson and his wife have since established a nonprofit organization, Clear Skies Ahead, to raise awareness and funds for pilot mental health initiatives.