Pilot's Psychedelic Panic: Engine Shutoff Attempt Averted

Tense moments unfolded aboard a 2023 Alaska Airlines flight when an off-duty pilot, Joseph Emerson, attempted to shut down the engines. Emerson, who had taken psychedelic mushrooms days prior and was sleep-deprived, reached for the engine controls mid-flight. The flight crew quickly subdued him, alerting air traffic controllers to the emergency.

The pilots communicated the critical situation, stating Emerson was "out of the cockpit" and "subdued," but requested law enforcement upon landing. The flight, carrying 84 people, was diverted to Portland, Oregon, where Emerson was met by police. He later admitted he believed he was dreaming when he pulled the engine handles.

Emerson faced federal charges for interfering with a flight crew and state charges for endangering others. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 50 days in jail, five years of probation, and ordered to pay over $60,000 in restitution. A judge acknowledged pilots are human and sometimes need help.