Title: Passengers File Lawsuit against Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air Alleging Pilot’s Attempted Mid-Flight Shutdown
In a shocking turn of events, three Alaska Airlines passengers have filed a class-action lawsuit against the airline and its subsidiary, Horizon Air, following an alarming incident that occurred during a flight. The lawsuit alleges that an off-duty pilot, Joseph Emerson, attempted to shut down the engines mid-flight, putting the lives of everyone onboard in grave danger.
According to the plaintiffs, Emerson should not have been allowed in the cockpit due to his history of depression and lack of adequate sleep. The lawsuit claims that these factors impaired his judgment and compromised the safety of the flight. Furthermore, it alleges that Emerson made additional attempts to engage the fire-suppression system and open an emergency exit door while still in handcuffs.
The class-action lawsuit has been initiated by The Stritmatter Firm, which argues that Alaska Airlines failed to properly screen Emerson before allowing him access to the cockpit. Attorney Daniel Laurence has emphasized the potential danger posed by trained pilots intentionally causing harm by crashing planes.
The traumatizing incident has left the passengers deeply affected, with many reporting experiencing anxiety, insomnia, and fear of flying as a result. They express their feelings of betrayal and have called for more stringent screening protocols for anyone with access to the cockpit.
Emerson, who has pleaded not guilty to the charges, is currently awaiting arraignment on federal charges concerning the attempted mid-flight engine shutdown. The severity of these allegations underlines the importance of addressing potential risks associated with cockpit personnel.
In response to the lawsuit, Alaska Airlines has stated that it is reviewing the complaint and acknowledges the actions of the pilots and flight attendants during the incident. The airline maintains its commitment to passenger safety while simultaneously assuring the public that it will thoroughly investigate the alleged screening failures.
As this lawsuit unfolds, it brings attention to the need for enhanced protocols in screening individuals with access to the cockpit, ensuring that only competent and mentally stable personnel are entrusted with such critical responsibilities. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks that can arise when proper screening measures are not in place, leaving passengers vulnerable to unpredictable situations.
The Puck Drop will continue to closely monitor this developing story, providing updates as new information becomes available.
