In a shocking incident aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 322 on March 3, a 19-year-old student pilot, Nathan Jones, allegedly made multiple attempts to enter the cockpit of the cross-country flight to Dulles, Va. The incident has raised concerns about passenger safety and raised serious legal and mental health implications for the young man.

According to an affidavit by Federal Air Marshal Thomas Pattinson, Jones attempted to open the aircraft's cockpit door three times during the flight. Flight attendants quickly responded by requesting assistance from off-duty law enforcement officers, who promptly restrained Jones using flex cuffs. They then guarded him for the remainder of the journey, ensuring the safety of everyone onboard.

When asked about his actions, Jones allegedly told flight attendants that he was "testing them," indicating a potential dangerous motive behind his actions. As a result, he now faces charges of alleged interference with a flight crew, which could result in a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment.

Jones had been residing with his mother in Northern Virginia prior to the incident. His defense lawyer, Robert Jenkins, has expressed concerns about his client's mental health and intends to request a psychological evaluation to determine his competency to stand trial. Jenkins stated, "We are very concerned about his mental health. I intend to request that the court evaluates him for competency to stand trial."

New information from the Alexandria, Virginia jail, where Jones is being held, reveals that he is currently on suicide watch. Jailers have reported that he is displaying symptoms such as incoherent speech, disorganized behavior, mood lability, and signs of psychosis. In light of these concerns, Anne Zalewski, a licensed clinical social worker for the jail, emphasizes that Jones requires hospital-level care to stabilize his altered mental state associated with psychiatric illness. Zalewski warns, "Without proper treatment, Mr. Jones is likely to continue to decompensate and continue to be a harm to himself."

Further investigation by authorities after the flight's landing uncovered multiple notebooks in Jones' belongings. These notebooks reportedly contained writings describing various aircraft operations, including take-off, in-air techniques, and landing procedures. Additionally, Jones was found to possess a student pilot's license.

During the remainder of the flight, additional security measures were implemented, including placing a beverage cart at the cockpit door and stationing a flight attendant as a guard. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed awareness of the incident and is currently investigating the disturbance. Thankfully, Flight 322 safely reached its intended destination without further incident.

This unprecedented event serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining passenger safety during flights. As the legal proceedings continue, the mental well-being of Nathan Jones remains a significant concern. The evaluation of his competency and the provision of appropriate mental health treatment will be crucial factors in determining his future course of action.