Pilot Joseph Emerson Tried to Shut Down a Plane in 2023. Inside His Life Now
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/PILOT-joseph-emerson-lying-to-fly-04-102125-0ecaeba41c6a480ea5744ff34518aaca.jpg)
Joseph Emerson, a pilot who attempted to sabotage a plane in 2023, continues to face the aftermath of his actions. The incident, which took place on an Alaska Airlines flight, inspired the documentary ‘Lie to Fly’. It has been two years since the occurrence, shedding light on the mental health challenges that pilots may encounter along with the strict regulations they must adhere to. This event not only raised concerns about pilot mental health but also emphasised the necessity of stringent safety measures within the aviation industry.
Joseph David Emerson, a seasoned pilot, made an attempt to disrupt Flight 2059 on Oct. 22, 2023. Despite his extensive experience in aviation and compliance with FAA medical certification requirements in the past, he faced a severe mental breakdown during the flight. Emerson attributed this breakdown to sleep deprivation and the consumption of psychedelic mushrooms two days before, leading to his ill-fated attempt to disable the plane’s engines. Following the incident, Emerson was charged with multiple charges and is currently awaiting sentencing after pleading guilty to a federal charge in September 2025.
The FX and Hulu documentary ‘Lie to Fly’, which aired in August 2024, provided an in-depth exploration of Emerson’s story and the broader implications regarding airline safety and pilot mental health. The documentary delved into the events surrounding Flight 2059 and how they have prompted discussions on the mental well-being of pilots in the industry. This case exemplifies the critical importance of addressing mental health concerns among aviation professionals and implementing support systems to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Emerson’s journey in the aviation sector began in 2001 with Horizon Airlines, eventually progressing to a Captain role at Alaska Airlines by 2019. Despite his professional success, he faced personal struggles following the loss of a close friend, leading to mental health challenges. Emerson’s reluctance to seek help due to FAA regulations prohibiting pilots with certain mental health diagnoses from flying highlights the complexities pilots face when dealing with mental health issues.
During Flight 2059, Emerson’s mental breakdown manifested as he attempted to shut down the plane’s engines mid-flight. His actions prompted immediate intervention from the flight crew, averting a potential disaster. Emerson was subsequently charged with multiple counts related to endangering the aircraft and its occupants, marking a turning point in his life and career. His defence emphasised that the incident was a result of a panic-induced hallucination rather than criminal intent, underlining the importance of addressing mental health concerns in the aviation industry.
The incident involving Emerson sparked significant conversations within the aviation community regarding pilot mental health. The FAA, recognising the barriers that impede pilots from seeking mental health support, established a Pilot Mental Health Aviation Rulemaking Committee to address these challenges. The committee’s recommendations aim to facilitate a more supportive environment for pilots to address mental health concerns without compromising safety standards. These efforts highlight the industry’s commitment to prioritising pilot well-being and enhancing mental health support mechanisms.
Following his guilty plea to a federal charge in 2025, Emerson awaits sentencing, which could potentially result in a lengthy prison term. His case serves as a stark reminder of the ramifications of untreated mental health issues and the critical need for comprehensive support systems for pilots. Despite the challenges he continues to face, Emerson’s story underscores the industry’s evolving approach towards mental health awareness and highlights the importance of prioritising pilot well-being to ensure safe and secure air travel for all.