A former Alaska Airlines pilot who attempted engine cutting is released from prison

An Oregon judge released an ex-Alaska Airlines pilot accused of trying to cut the engines of a passenger flight while off-duty and riding in an extra cockpit seat from jail pending trial Thursday, with conditions that include staying away from aircraft.

Multnomah County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Ryan ruled after Joseph Emerson pleaded not guilty to reduced reckless endangerment charges after facing attempted murder charges.

In a federal flight crew interference charge, Emerson of Pleasant Hill, California, has pleaded not guilty. The judge in that case also granted his release pending trial.

Prisoner Emerson was released around 5 p.m. As he left, he and Sarah Stretch hugged in tears. He said nothing. According to his lawyer Noah Horst, the couple would drive home to California.

Emerson must receive mental health services, avoid drugs and alcohol, and stay 30 feet from an operable aircraft. Horst said his bail was $50,000 and he had to post 10%, or $5,000, to be released.

After his arrest, Emerson told Port of Portland police that he was depressed, that a friend had died, and that he had taken psychedelic mushrooms 48 hours before cutting the engines. The document stated that he had not slept in over 40 hours.

The near-miss raised concerns about cockpit safety and mental fitness.