Pilot Attempts Engine Shutdown Mid-Flight

Joseph Emerson, an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot, has publicly addressed his October 2023 incident in which he attempted to shut down the plane's engines mid-flight while under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms. He expressed deep remorse, describing his actions as 'unfathomable' and attributing them to severe depression following the death of a close friend. During the flight from Everett to San Francisco, Emerson pulled fire suppression handles in an effort to wake himself from a perceived dream state, believing he was trapped in the airplane. Although initially indicted on 84 charges, he now faces reduced charges of reckless endangerment as he awaits trial. Emerson hopes to raise awareness around mental health issues in aviation, emphasizing the need for better support for pilots. He has pleaded not guilty and expressed a desire to fly again in the future.