A recent incident involving an off-duty pilot’s attempt to shut down the engines of a Horizon Air flight with over 80 passengers on board has raised serious questions about the mental well-being of those permitted in the cockpit.
Joseph Emerson, a 44-year-old pilot, had been actively flying passengers just three days before he allegedly tried to engage an emergency fire suppression system while traveling as a passenger from Washington state to San Francisco on Flight 2059. The attempt was thwarted by the flight crew, and the plane landed safely in Portland, Oregon.
Emerson, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder charges, revealed to police after his arrest that he had experienced a nervous breakdown, was grappling with depression, coping with the recent loss of a friend, and had not slept for 40 hours. He also disclosed that he had consumed psychedelic mushrooms roughly 48 hours before the incident. It remains unclear whether he used them recreationally or as a form of self-medication, but psilocybin is gaining recognition in the U.S. for its potential in treating mental health issues. Witnesses, including fellow pilots, reported that Emerson did not appear intoxicated.
This incident has brought to light several crucial issues:
1. Mental Health Disclosure: Airline pilots must renew their medical certificates regularly, typically on an annual or biannual basis. These forms require pilots to disclose any history of depression, anxiety, drug or alcohol dependence, and the medications they are taking. This system is built on trust, with pilots expected to report any health issues honestly.
2. FAA’s Approach: The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has allowed some pilots on medication for mild to moderate depression to continue flying on a case-by-case basis since 2010. In addition, certain airlines have implemented confidential programs to support employees facing mental health challenges.
3. Encouraging Seeking Help: The FAA encourages pilots to seek help for mental health conditions, as most treated conditions do not disqualify a pilot from flying. It is crucial for pilots who are struggling to speak up, as temporary grounding is preferable to career jeopardy and potential catastrophic incidents down the line.
4. Psychiatric Conditions: Some psychiatric conditions, such as bipolar disorder and psychosis, are disqualifying for pilots.
5. Drug Testing: While the U.S. Department of Transportation mandates drug testing for on-duty pilots or flight attendants, it does not include testing for psychedelics like psilocybin.
Alaska Airlines, the parent company of Horizon Air, maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding impairment and provides training to identify signs of impairment for gate agents and flight attendants. However, the flight crew and authorities who interviewed Emerson stated that he did not appear impaired.
6. Off-Duty Behavior: While there are no specific guidelines for pilot behavior off-duty, drugs can still be detected in random tests even after their effects have worn off.
The recent incident has sparked discussions about the need for a comprehensive review of the existing system. While some argue against a complete overhaul, emphasizing that rare events should not prompt drastic changes, it is evident that the mental health and well-being of those in the cockpit must remain a priority. In parallel, psilocybin is gaining attention as a potential therapy for mental health issues, as the FDA has published draft guidance for clinical trials involving psychedelic drugs to treat various conditions.
The exact triggers for the Horizon Air incident remain unclear, but it underscores the need for continuous evaluation and support for pilot mental health and well-being.
Joseph Emerson, who has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges related to the incident, remains in custody, awaiting further legal proceedings.
