Off-Duty Alaska Airlines Pilot Charged with Attempted Murder for Trying to Turn Off Plane's Engines Mid-Flight

Off-duty pilot Joseph Emerson claimed use of psychedelic mushrooms and lack of sleep in his defense as he faced dozens of state charges of attempted murder and interference with flight crew during Alaska Airlines Flight 2059; questions arise about insider access and screening procedures despite stringent safety measures in aviation.

• Off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot, Joseph Emerson, facing dozens of state charges of attempted murder and one federal count of interfering with flight crew members, claimed he had consumed psychedelic mushrooms and had not slept for 40 hours before the flight.
• The incident occurred on Alaska Airlines Flight 2059, where Emerson attempted to shut off the plane's engines and open an emergency door while travelling in the cockpit's 'jump seat'. The flight crew managed to subdue him before any disaster occurred.
• The incident raises questions about the potential danger posed by aviation insiders, especially those occupying the cockpit's jump seat. Despite stringent industry safety procedures, experts point out these do not account for threats from within the crew itself.
• Emerson's actions challenge the industry's existing vetting procedures. Off-duty pilots must currently present their credentials and secure approval from the captain to occupy the jump seat, which gives them easy access to the cockpit controls.
• Despite a clear professional record and a recent psychological examination, Emerson confessed to being in the midst of a 'nervous breakdown'. This case highlights potential gaps in psychological screening processes for pilots, particularly those dealing with mental health issues.

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