A former Alaska Airlines pilot, Joseph David Emerson, received a sentence of time served and three years of supervised release from U.S. District Judge Amy Baggio in Portland, Oregon. The incident occurred on October 22, 2023, during Horizon Air Flight 2059 from Washington to San Francisco. Emerson, an off-duty passenger in the cockpit, tried to cut off the engines by pulling the red fire suppression handles. Fortunately, the on-duty pilots and crew restrained him, and the plane safely landed in Portland with 84 passengers.

Emerson explained to police that he was grieving a friend’s death, sleep-deprived, and under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms, which led him to believe he was dreaming and needed to wake up. Feeling trapped and disconnected from reality, he attempted to “wake up” by pulling the levers. Emerson faced federal charges for interfering with a flight crew and state charges for endangerment.

During his sentencing, Emerson expressed remorse for his actions and acknowledged the positive changes in his life post-incident. He thanked the flight crew for saving him and others, recognizing the event as a catalyst for personal growth. His wife, Sarah Stretch, spoke at the hearing, highlighting Emerson’s transformation and resilience in response to the ordeal. The judge’s decision brought emotional relief, with Emerson embracing his attorneys and wife as a sign of closure and gratitude for the opportunity to rebuild his life.