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Recordings Released of Off-Duty Pilot’s Attempt to Pull Engine-Shutdown Handles on 2023 Horizon Flight

The release follows a ruling last month imposing time served plus three years of supervised release.

Overview

  • Newly published cockpit audio and police videos capture crew members calling for an emergency landing after identifying a jump-seat pilot trying to cut engine fuel using fire-suppression handles.
  • Horizon Flight 2059 diverted from its EverettSan Francisco route and landed safely in Portland as the crew coordinated with air traffic control while onboard alarms sounded.
  • Police vehicle video shows Joseph Emerson saying he was having a nervous breakdown and was trying to wake up from what he believed was a dream.
  • Investigators say Emerson reported taking psychedelic mushrooms two days earlier and not sleeping for 48 hours; he later pleaded no contest to local charges and accepted a federal deal with credit for time served.
  • Emerson has paid $60,000 in restitution, apologized to the crew, attends recovery meetings, and launched a nonprofit, Clear Skies Ahead, focused on pilot mental-health support.