Pilot's Mental Health Crisis Sparks Aviation Safety Reforms

Joseph Emerson's attempted sabotage of Alaska Airlines Flight 2059 highlights urgent need for better mental health support for pilots.

Joseph Emerson, an experienced pilot, attempted to disable a plane's engines during a severe mental breakdown in October 2023.
Emerson had ingested psychedelic mushrooms and was sleep-deprived, leading to hallucinations and a sense of unreality.
The incident has intensified discussions about pilot mental health and the FAA's stringent regulations.
The FAA has since formed a committee to address barriers preventing pilots from seeking mental health treatment.
Emerson and his wife have founded a nonprofit to support pilots dealing with mental health issues.