In a shocking turn of events, an off-duty Alaska Airlines pilot, Joe Emerson, has been arrested and charged with 83 counts of attempted murder after allegedly attempting to shut down the engines of Horizon Air flight 2059 from Everett to San Francisco.

The incident unfolded on Sunday evening when Emerson, seated in the spare cockpit seat, reportedly made a concerted effort to disrupt the plane’s engines. Quick thinking by Horizon Air’s Captain and First Officer prevented a potential catastrophe, leading to the safe landing of the aircraft in Portland around 6.30 pm local time.

Alaska Airlines, the parent company of Horizon Air, released a statement on Monday confirming the diversion of the flight due to a “credible security” threat associated with an individual in the cockpit’s flight deck jump seat.

“The jump seat occupant unsuccessfully attempted to disrupt the operation of the engines,” the airline stated. “The Horizon captain and first officer quickly responded, engine power was not lost, and the crew secured the aircraft without incident.”

The flight crew, in accordance with FAA procedures and guidance from air traffic control, landed at Portland International Airport. All passengers on board were accommodated on a later flight, ensuring their safety.

Upon landing, Emerson was apprehended by Port of Portland police, who subsequently charged him with 83 counts of attempted murder, 83 counts of reckless endangerment, and a count of endangering an aircraft. The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the charges, and the investigation is being conducted with the involvement of law enforcement authorities, including the FBI and the Port of Portland Police Department.

It was emphasised that no weapons were involved in the incident, and the airline assured the public that safety remains a top priority. The aviation community now faces the aftermath of this unprecedented event, raising questions about security measures within the airline industry.