Shocking Incident: Off-Duty Pilot's Attempt to Crash Alaska Airlines Flight Thwarted by Quick-Thinking Crew
Unveiling a shocking mid-flight incident, an off-duty pilot's attempt to shut down the engines using the Engine Fire Handle sends shockwaves.
An off-duty pilot accused of attempting to crash an Alaska Airlines passenger plane allegedly tried to shut down the engines by engaging the Engine Fire Handle. The fire suppression system involves T-valve handles for each engine, and if fully deployed, a valve in the wing shuts off fuel to the engine. However, the quick reaction of the crew prevented engine power loss. The off-duty captain, Joseph David Emerson, was sitting in the cockpit during the incident and expressed concerns moments before it occurred. The flight was en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco, but it diverted to Portland, Oregon. Emerson faces charges, including 83 counts of attempted murder and is due in court. There were 80 passengers and four crew members on the flight. The incident is not connected to current world events, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Flight Diverted to Portland Due to 'Credible Security Threat'; Off-Duty Pilot Faces 83 Attempted Murder Charges
An aircraft en route to San Francisco was diverted to Portland after a 'credible security threat.' An off-duty pilot is now charged with 83 counts of attempted murder. Get the latest on this alarming incident.
A flight from Washington state to San Francisco was diverted to Portland, Oregon, due to a credible security threat. An off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot was arrested and charged with over 80 counts of attempted murder. Alaska Airlines Flight 2059, operated by Horizon Air, encountered the threat related to an authorized occupant in the flight deck jump seat. The crew safely secured the aircraft, following FAA procedures and air traffic control guidance. All passengers later traveled on a different flight. Joseph David Emerson, 44, was arrested and faces numerous counts, including attempted murder and reckless endangerment.
The arrested individual had occupied the jump seat, a customary practice for airline employees hitching a free ride. Portland air traffic controllers were informed that the person attempted to shut down the engines but seemed subdued. The case has been assigned to the FBI, and the FAA sent a security notice to U.S. carriers regarding the incident.
This is an ongoing story; further updates will follow. (Source: Fox News)