Audio: Pilot Joseph Emerson tried to shut down engines mid-flight, on mushrooms.

• Former Alaska Airlines pilot Joseph Emerson attempted to shut down engines of a Horizon Air flight in October 2023.
• Emerson, off-duty and in the cockpit jump seat, tried to pull fire-suppression handles on an Embraer E75 jet with 84 people aboard.
• Investigators found Emerson was sleep-deprived and under the influence of psychedelic mushrooms taken two days prior.
• Cockpit audio captured the struggle and an emergency call reporting the attempt to shut off engines, leading to a diversion to Portland.
• Emerson was restrained, the flight landed safely, and he later pleaded guilty to charges including interfering with a flight crew.

Why It Matters: This incident underscores the vital importance of pilot mental health and air safety protocols.