Passengers Sue Alaska Airlines Over Off-Duty Pilot Incident

Passengers Sue Alaska Airlines: Alaska Airlines is facing a lawsuit from three passengers who were onboard a flight where an off-duty pilot attempted to disable the plane’s engines from the cockpit “jump seat.” The incident occurred during Alaska Airlines Flight 2059, operated by regional subsidiary Horizon Air, en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco on October 22.

The lawsuit, filed by The Stritmatter Firm in Washington state court, is the first legal action related to the incident. The passengers seek answers from Alaska Air and Horizon Air regarding why the off-duty pilot was not subject to preflight security screening. The lawsuit is proposed as a class-action complaint, representing all passengers on the flight.

The plaintiffs are seeking special and general damages, including ticket fees and compensation for psychological and physical distress. Additionally, the suit calls for injunctive relief, mandating mental health status examinations for anticipated flight crew and jump seat passengers.

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The off-duty pilot, Joseph David Emerson, admitted to struggling with depression for the past six months and consuming “magic mushrooms” about 48 hours before boarding the plane. He was arrested in Portland, Oregon, where the flight was diverted and landed safely, facing charges of 83 counts of attempted murder and endangering an aircraft.

This legal action highlights the concerns of passengers affected by the incident and raises questions about safety protocols for off-duty airline personnel occupying jump seats in the cockpit. Alaska Airlines has not yet responded to the lawsuit.

Our Reader’s Queries

What is the lawsuit against Alaska Airlines?

Laurence is spearheading a lawsuit against Alaska Airlines for passengers who were on a flight on October 22. An off-duty pilot, who was high on magic mushrooms, allegedly tried to shut down the plane’s engines while sitting in the cockpit jump seat. The lawsuit is still in progress.

Did Alaska Airlines get sued for Flight 261?

After the crash, both McDonnell Douglas and Alaska Airlines took responsibility for the incident. Most of the lawsuits filed by the families of the victims were resolved outside of court, with only one case proceeding to trial.

Who was the pilot who tried to shut down Alaska Airlines?

Joseph David Emerson, the off-duty pilot who allegedly attempted to shut down engines mid-flight on an Alaska Airlines plane in October, has been indicted on 84 charges. While the grand jury did not pursue attempted murder charges, Emerson still faces a multitude of serious accusations. This incident highlights the importance of ensuring the mental and emotional stability of those responsible for the safety of air travel.

What are the charges against the Alaska Airlines pilot?

The pilot, Joseph Emerson, who was accused of attempting to crash an Alaska Airlines jetliner in Oregon, will no longer be charged with attempted murder. Instead, a grand jury has indicted him on a felony charge of endangering an aircraft and 83 misdemeanor counts of reckless endangerment. This decision was announced by officials on Tuesday.