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Pilot's Mid-Air Engine Shutdown Attempt Revealed
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Off-duty pilot Joseph Emerson allegedly reached for engine shut-off handles.
- Incident occurred in October 2023 on a flight from Seattle to San Francisco.
- A disturbing cockpit recording has resurfaced online concerning the event.
A disturbing cockpit recording has resurfaced, detailing an incident from October 2023 where an off-duty pilot allegedly attempted to disable a passenger jet's engines while in the air. Joseph Emerson, identified as the pilot, was reportedly in the cockpit jump seat of a Horizon Air Embraer E75 en route from Seattle to San Francisco.
During the flight, Emerson allegedly reached for the emergency engine shut-off handles. This action precipitated a brief struggle within the cockpit as crew members intervened to prevent the engines from being turned off. The resurfaced recording provides a critical auditory account of the tense moments that unfolded.
The incident, which occurred several months ago, is now under renewed scrutiny following the release of this cockpit audio. Investigations into the motivations and actions of Joseph Emerson continue as the aviation industry assesses the implications of this serious breach of safety protocols.
