Former Alaska Airlines pilot pleads guilty in mid-flight engine sabotage case

Joseph Emerson, 46, a former Alaska Airlines pilot, pleaded guilty Friday in both federal and state cases for trying to shut down a passenger plane’s engines while riding in a cockpit jump seat during an October 2023 flight.

• Federal case: Emerson admitted to interfering with flight crew members. He faces up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, with sentencing set for November 17.

• State case: He pleaded no contest to 83 counts of reckless endangerment and one felony count of endangering an aircraft. He was sentenced to 50 days in jail (already served), five years’ probation, over $60,000 in restitution, and 600+ hours of community service.

Emerson told the court he had taken psychedelic mushrooms two days earlier and was still experiencing hallucinogenic effects, believing he was dreaming when he tried to pull the engine shut-off handles. The crew stopped him, and the plane landed safely.

He expressed deep remorse, acknowledged his struggles with substance abuse and mental health, and said he will use his nonprofit, Clear Skies Ahead, to raise awareness about pilot mental health.

Passengers described lingering anxiety from the incident; one called the plea deal too lenient, while another supported Emerson using his service to educate others about the dangers of psychedelics.

Emerson is permanently banned from flying as a pilot.