Crisis at 30,000 Feet
The Alaska Airlines engine shutdown incident
In October 2023, an Alaska Airlines flight faced a terrifying situation when off-duty pilot Joseph Emerson, seated in the cockpit’s jump seat, attempted to shut down the plane’s engines mid-flight. The quick actions of the on-duty crew averted disaster for all 84 members on board.
Initially, Emerson was condemned, and concerns were raised about aviation safety. However, it soon emerged that he had been battling severe mental health issues, worsened by recent use of psychedelic mushrooms. This revelation shifted the conversation toward understanding the complex factors behind the incident.
The Rigorous Standards of Aviation Safety
Aviation is among the most rigorously regulated industries in the world. Pilots undergo regular medical examinations, psychological evaluations, and extensive training to ensure their fitness to fly.
Despite these safeguards, the stigma surrounding mental health often prevents individuals from seeking the help they desperately need. The fear of career repercussions and the pressure to maintain an image of unwavering reliability can drive pilots to conceal their struggles rather than address them.
