In a shocking incident that took place last month, three passengers have filed a lawsuit against Alaska Airlines, claiming emotional distress. The incident involved an off-duty pilot who allegedly attempted to shut down the engines of the plane while riding in the cockpit from Washington state to San Francisco. The plaintiffs, Matthew Doland, Theresa Stelter, and Paul Stephen, argue that the pilot should never have been allowed in the cockpit due to his reported depression and lack of sleep.

The complaint was filed on Thursday in King County Superior Court in Washington state. Alaska Airlines responded to the lawsuit, stating that they are currently reviewing the complaint. They also commended the actions of the pilots and flight attendants of Flight 2059, operated by Alaska affiliate Horizon Air, for their quick response in ensuring the safety of all onboard. The airline expressed gratitude for the skilled actions of the crew during the incident.

The accused pilot, Joseph David Emerson, 44, was sitting in the jump seat, an extra seat in the cockpit, when he suddenly exclaimed, "I'm not OK," and attempted to engage a fire-suppression system and cut fuel to the engines. Authorities revealed these details in charging documents. The pilots managed to subdue Emerson, and the plane safely diverted to Portland, Oregon. Emerson was voluntarily handcuffed in the back of the plane, according to police reports.

The plaintiffs in the lawsuit described their harrowing experience, stating that they felt the plane went into "what felt like a nose-dive." However, some passengers quoted in news accounts did not mention such a drastic moment during the incident. Passenger Aubrey Gavello, who was aboard the flight, revealed that they were unaware of any problem until a flight attendant made an emergency announcement, instructing the plane to land immediately.

The complaint further states that the plaintiffs have suffered from anxiety, insomnia, fear of flying, and other emotional effects as a result of the incident. Seeking class-action status on behalf of other passengers, the lawsuit claims that the airline failed to uphold its duty of care to its passengers by allowing Emerson into the cockpit. The plaintiffs argue that airlines should take simple and reasonable steps before each flight to ensure that every pilot is well-rested, sober, and mentally fit to fly.

Daniel Laurence, an aviation lawyer at The Stritmatter Firm representing the plaintiffs, emphasized that Emerson's statements during the flight and after his arrest demonstrate that the airline should have taken precautions to prevent him from boarding the plane. Laurence stated, "Only luck prevented it from becoming a mass disaster."

It is worth noting that off-duty pilots riding in jump seats is a common practice, and in rare emergency situations, they have even contributed to saving lives. However, this incident has raised concerns about the screening process and protocols for off-duty pilots. Emerson has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder charges in Oregon state court and is awaiting arraignment on a federal charge of interfering with a flight crew.

Last week, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) sent guidance to U.S. air carriers, clarifying that the incident was not related to any current world events. Law enforcement officials have also stated that they have not found any connection to terrorism. CBS News reported that investigators would delve into Emerson's life, examining his social media, computers, and phones, to determine any potential triggers for the incident.

In court documents filed last week, Emerson confessed to consuming "magic mushrooms" approximately 48 hours before the alleged incident. An Oregon prosecutor revealed that Emerson claimed to have believed he was dreaming and wanted to wake up during the midair scare.

As the investigation continues, it remains to be seen what further evidence will emerge regarding the motivations behind this alarming incident.