Pilot Released After Attempting Mid-Flight Sabotage

Joseph Emerson, the American pilot who attempted to shut down the engines of a plane during a flight to the United States last October, has been released. The agency stated, "The former Alaska Airlines pilot, facing charges for trying to turn off the engines of a passenger aircraft while off-duty and flying in the cockpit on an extra seat, was released from custody yesterday, Thursday, pending trial, after a judge in Oregon approved his release on the condition that he does not approach aircraft." Emerson has pleaded not guilty to charges of causing health risks and interfering with the crew's operations aboard the plane. The judge subsequently decided to release him until the trial begins with a bail set at $50,000. Emerson is also required to receive mental health assistance and stay at least 9 meters away from operating aircraft. CNN previously reported that "Emerson faces 84 charges: one charge of endangering an aircraft and 83 charges of recklessly endangering others."