Off-duty pilot who tried to cut a flight’s engines midair to be sentenced in federal case

Former Alaska Airlines pilot Joseph Emerson, who attempted to cut the engines of a Horizon Air flight in October 2023, faces sentencing in federal court. Emerson, riding in the cockpit jump seat, tried to activate the plane's fire suppression system, which would have cut fuel to the engines. The flight crew subdued him, averting a potential disaster.

Emerson pleaded guilty to federal charges of interfering with a flight crew and no-contest to state charges of endangering others. His defense cited a mental health crisis triggered by a friend's death and the use of psychedelic mushrooms. Prosecutors requested a year in prison, while the defense sought probation, highlighting Emerson's acceptance of responsibility and participation in mental health treatment.

The state court sentenced Emerson to 50 days in jail (time served), five years of probation, community service, and restitution to Alaska Air Group. He must also undergo drug, alcohol, and mental health assessments and maintain distance from aircraft. Emerson founded a pilot health non-profit after the incident.

The averted disaster has renewed scrutiny of cockpit safety protocols and the mental health screening of aviation personnel. The airline stated that the flight crew did not observe any signs of impairment in Emerson prior to the incident.