Stranded American teen influencer lands in Chilean Antarctica without authorization
Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old American pilot and Asian American teen influencer, found himself in the spotlight after his daring attempt to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents while raising funds for childhood cancer research[3]. However, his journey took an unexpected turn when he illegally landed his single-engine Cessna 182 on King George Island in Chilean Antarctic territory[1][2][4].
Guo claimed that the diversion was due to engine failure and loss of radio transmission while flying from Chile to Argentina. His attorney argued that he had explicit permission to land at a Chilean base, but the Chilean authorities disagreed and detained him immediately after landing[1].
After over 40 days of being stranded and under investigation, Guo’s case was suspended by a Chilean court. The court dropped the charges in exchange for Guo making a $30,000 donation to a local children’s cancer charity within 30 days and imposing a ban on his re-entry into Chilean territory for three years. Guo is also required to leave Chile as soon as conditions permit[1][4].
"I am relieved by the outcome," Guo told The Associated Press in a text message on Monday[1]. Despite the ordeal, Guo expressed gratitude and maintained his innocence, hoping the matter had resolved sooner[1].
The Chilean prosecutor stated that Guo's plane does not have the capabilities to make a flight to Antarctica[5]. Guo has been staying at a military base in Chile for the past six weeks[6]. He remains in Antarctica with the aim of continuing his original mission[7].
Guo is currently awaiting approval for his departure flight from Antarctica. He is also responsible for covering all expenses for his return[8]. The prosecutor's office requires Guo to pay for all costs related to his aircraft security and personal maintenance during his stay at the military facility[9].
Guo's Antarctic adventure has been a rollercoaster ride, but with the charges dropped, he can now focus on completing his mission and making a difference in the fight against childhood cancer[3].
References:
- AP News
- CNN
- Fox News
- BBC News
- Reuters
- The Guardian
- NBC News
- CBS News
- The New York Times
