An Alaska Airlines flight was forced to make an emergency diversion to Portland, Oregon, on Sunday after an off-duty pilot on board allegedly attempted to shut down the plane's engines midflight. The suspect, identified as Joseph Emerson, was taken into custody by police and charged with multiple offenses, including 83 counts of attempted murder, according to online jail records from the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.

The incident occurred on Alaska Airlines Flight 2059, operated by Horizon Air, which was en route from Everett, Washington, to San Francisco with 80 passengers and four crew members aboard, including Emerson. Airport officials confirmed that the off-duty pilot had been traveling in the jump seat in the cockpit when he unsuccessfully tried to "disrupt the operation of the engines" during the flight.

Air traffic control recordings captured the pilot announcing, "We've got the guy that tried to shut the engines down out of the cockpit." The captain and first officer of the Horizon Air flight promptly detained Emerson and successfully landed the aircraft at Portland International Airport just before 6:30 p.m, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew.

Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, are actively investigating the incident. The FBI's field office in Portland released a statement, assuring the public that there is no ongoing threat related to this event. While the motive behind the alleged attempt to cut the engines remains unclear, investigators have stated that no connection to terrorism has been found thus far.

In response to the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued guidance to U.S. air carriers, emphasizing that the event is "not connected in any way shape or form to current world events." The FAA emphasized that it seems to be an isolated incident, separate from any global concerns.

Thankfully, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident. All passengers were accommodated on a later flight, as Alaska Airlines expressed gratitude for the professionalism exhibited by the Horizon flight crew and the calm and patience demonstrated by the passengers throughout the event.

As investigations continue, Joseph Emerson remains in custody, facing charges related to his alleged attempt to interfere with the operation of the plane's engines. The aviation community, along with law enforcement agencies, will undoubtedly work diligently to ensure the safety and security of air travel for all passengers.