Former Pilot Who Tried to Shut Down Engines Mid-Flight Speaks Out After Two Years

Joseph Emerson, the former pilot who endangered a flight by attempting to shut down its engines while onboard an Alaska Airlines flight, has spoken publicly for the first time since the incident nearly two years ago. In an interview with CBS Mornings, Emerson said, “It was the most critical three seconds of my life,” as he recounted the events.

Psychosis During Flight

In October 2023, while riding in the cockpit’s jump seat on a non-duty flight, Emerson experienced a panic attack after consuming hallucinogenic “magic mushrooms,” which caused a break from reality. He attempted to shut down the aircraft’s engines by pulling the fire-suppression fuel cutoff handles.

“I thought I needed to wake up. It felt like I was dreaming,” Emerson explained, noting that he now understands he was in reality at the time.

The flight was diverted to Portland and landed safely. Emerson was taken into custody following the incident. He currently faces federal charges for interfering with the flight crew and state charges for endangering the lives of 83 people. He is expected to appear in court next month.

Pilot Mental Health Back in Spotlight

The incident has reignited discussions about systemic barriers to mental health care for pilots. In the U.S., pilots risk losing their flight certification if they disclose receiving psychological treatment. A 2022 study found that 56% of pilots avoid seeking medical help due to these concerns.

“I believed I had to appear flawless on paper. I felt I had to look perfect no matter what,” Emerson said, highlighting how the system pressures pilots into silence.

Steps Toward Reform

In response, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) held its first-ever forum dedicated to pilot mental health. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also began reviewing its current mental health policies, resulting in a report containing 24 specific recommendations.

Illinois Representative Sean Casten and Minnesota Representative Pete Stauber introduced a bipartisan bill titled the Mental Health in Aviation Act, aimed at easing access to mental health services for pilots and air traffic controllers. The bill calls for annual reviews of the FAA’s medical certification process, hiring more aviation medical professionals, and reducing public stigma around mental health.

The legislation is expected to maintain FAA safety standards while streamlining bureaucracy. It passed unanimously in the House Transportation Committee and now awaits full House approval.

“Clear Skies Ahead” Initiative

Emerson, who says he has remained sober since the incident, announced he and his wife have founded a nonprofit organization dedicated to pilot health and well-being called Clear Skies Ahead.

“I hope people can learn something from what I went through. That’s why I’m speaking up today,” he said.