Pilot's Mishap on Magic Mushrooms

Joseph Emerson, the off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot accused of attempting to shut down the engines of a plane in flight, has publicly addressed the incident for the first time. In an interview with ABC's "Good Morning America," Emerson recounted the events of October 22, 2023, when he was seated in the cockpit's jump seat on Flight 2059, which was en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco but was diverted to Portland. He expressed deep regret for his actions, stating, "I did something unfathomable to me, something I have to take responsibility for." Emerson revealed that he had consumed psychedelic mushrooms 48 hours prior to the flight and was experiencing depression, leading him to believe he was undergoing a mental breakdown. While research suggests that psychedelics may have therapeutic benefits, their effects can linger long after use. During the flight, Emerson described a moment of confusion, stating, "This is not real, I need to wake up," before he attempted to activate the fire suppression system by pulling two red handles designed to shut off the engines. Fortunately, his attempt was unsuccessful, and no injuries occurred. Initially facing over 80 counts of attempted murder, the charges against Emerson were later reduced to reckless endangerment. Released from custody in December, he is currently awaiting trial. His attorney, Noah Horst, emphasized that Emerson would never intentionally harm anyone and asserted that he was not under the influence of intoxicants when he boarded the flight.