Alaska Airlines Faces Lawsuits Over Off-Duty Pilot's Mid-Flight Engine Incident
Three passengers have filed a lawsuit against Alaska Airlines after an off-duty pilot allegedly attempted to shut down the engines of a passenger flight, causing emotional distress. The pilot, Joseph David Emerson, was restrained by cabin crew members and arrested upon landing. The plaintiffs claim that Emerson should not have been allowed in the cockpit due to his depression and lack of sleep. The lawsuit seeks damages for psychological injury and injunctive relief mandating mental health examinations for flight crew and jump seat passengers. Alaska Airlines is reviewing the complaint and has praised the actions of the pilots and flight attendants in ensuring passenger safety. Emerson has pleaded not guilty to state-level charges, including attempted murder and endangering an aircraft.