Averted disaster on Horizon Air flight renews scrutiny on mental health of those in the cockpit

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — What authorities describe as an off-duty pilot's attempt to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air flight with more than 80 people on board has renewed attention on the mental fitness of those allowed in the cockpit.

Joseph Emerson, 44, had been flying passengers himself just three days before police said he tried to engage an emergency fire suppression system while catching a ride from Washington state to San Francisco on Sunday in the extra seat behind the pilot and first officer on Flight 2059. He was subdued by the flight crew, and the plane landed safely in Portland, Oregon.

Emerson, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder charges, told police after his arrest that he'd had a nervous breakdown, had been struggling with depression and the death of a friend, and hadn't slept for 40 hours, according to charging documents.

Emerson also said he had taken psychedelic mushrooms for the first time about 48 hours earlier. It's not clear whether he took them recreationally or in an attempt to self-medicate, but psilocybin is increasingly being recognized in the U.S. for its potential to aid mental health. The pilots and others who encountered Emerson said he did not appear intoxicated.