An ex-pilot from Alaska Airlines who attempted to disable a passenger jet has been spared a prison sentence after expressing gratitude towards the flight crew for restraining him.

Joseph Emerson, who was off-duty and occupying an extra seat in the cockpit, made the dangerous attempt to cut the engines of a Horizon Air flight from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco on October 22, 2023. The flight crew intervened, preventing a disaster, and the plane was diverted to Portland where it landed safely with over 80 passengers on board.

US District Court Judge Amy Baggio in Portland, Oregon, sentenced Emerson to time served and three years of supervised release during a recent hearing. While federal prosecutors had sought a one-year prison term, Emerson’s attorneys had requested probation. Judge Baggio acknowledged the imperfections of pilots, emphasizing the need for support when necessary.

Following his arrest, Emerson disclosed that he was emotionally distressed due to a friend’s death, had consumed psychedelic mushrooms two days prior, and had been awake for over 40 hours. He claimed he thought he was dreaming and was trying to wake himself by manipulating the plane’s controls.

Before the sentencing, Emerson expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged the harm caused. He credited the incident with personal growth and received emotional support from his wife and legal team during the court proceedings.

Emerson had previously admitted guilt to all charges in agreements with state and federal prosecutors. He faced federal charges for interfering with a flight crew and state charges in Oregon for endangering others on board. He was released on conditions in December 2023, including mental health services, abstinence from substances, and avoidance of aircraft.

The sentencing highlighted the flight crew’s heroic actions that prevented a tragedy. Emerson expressed gratitude towards them for saving lives, including his own, and acknowledged the personal growth resulting from the challenging experience. The incident raised concerns about cockpit safety and the mental well-being of individuals with cockpit access.