Former Pilot Pleads Guilty After Attempt to Shut Down Engines Mid-Flight Following Mushroom Use

A former airline pilot has admitted guilt in a federal courtroom after a shocking mid-air incident in which he tried to cut off the engines of a passenger plane while under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms.

The In-Flight Incident

Joseph David Emerson, who was traveling off-duty in the cockpit of an Alaska Airlines flight, startled the flight crew when he told them, “I am not okay.” Moments later, he reached for the engine controls in an attempt to shut them down mid-flight.

Court documents reveal that the crew had to physically restrain Emerson to prevent disaster. The confrontation lasted roughly 90 seconds before he was removed from the cockpit.

The flight, carrying 80 passengers, was diverted to Portland, Oregon, after the October 22, 2023 incident. During the descent, Emerson also attempted to grab an emergency exit handle, further alarming the crew.

Struggles Behind the Act

Emerson later admitted to police that he had consumed psychedelic mushrooms and was battling depression at the time. In court, he acknowledged that he had been unable to fully perceive reality during the incident, but accepted responsibility, stating, “That doesn’t make this right.”

He added that the experience had been a painful turning point in his life, saying it had helped him become a better father, husband, and community member.

Legal Consequences

In federal court, Emerson pleaded guilty to charges connected to endangering the aircraft. Prosecutors are expected to recommend a one-year prison sentence, while his attorneys plan to argue against additional jail time.

In state court, he pleaded no contest to reckless endangerment and first-degree endangering an aircraft. He was sentenced to 50 days in jail, which he has already served, along with five years of probation.

As part of his sentence, Emerson must also complete 664 hours of community service—eight hours for each person endangered on the flight—and pay more than $60,000 in restitution.

Courtroom Reactions

Prosecutors described his actions as reckless and selfish, warning of how close the incident came to devastating consequences for the 84 people on board and their families.

Emerson himself expressed remorse in court, admitting his struggle with reality during the incident but emphasizing his determination to rebuild his life.

Conditions of Probation

Alongside community service and restitution, Emerson must undergo drug and alcohol assessments, avoid non-prescribed substances, and keep a distance of at least 25 feet from operable aircraft without explicit permission from his probation officer.

Half of his community service hours may be served through Clear Skies Ahead, a non-profit organization he co-founded with his wife to support pilot health following his arrest.

What’s Next

Emerson’s sentencing in the federal case is scheduled for November 17. The outcome will determine whether he faces additional jail time or primarily community-based penalties as he continues his rehabilitation.