U.S. Teen Influencer Stranded in Chilean Antarctic After Unauthorized Landing

Published Time: 08-12-2025, 11:45

SANTIAGO, Chile — What began as an ambitious global flight challenge for cancer research has turned into a prolonged ordeal for 20-year-old American influencer and pilot Ethan Guo, who has been stranded in Chilean Antarctic territory since late June following an unauthorized landing.

Guo, who gained attention last year for his attempt to become the youngest pilot to fly solo to all seven continents, is now facing the logistical and financial consequences of his actions, despite recent legal developments in his favor.

A Fundraising Journey Gone Off Course

Guo’s journey started as a personal mission to raise awareness and donations for childhood cancer research. Flying a Cessna 182Q, a single-engine light aircraft valued for its range and versatility, the Asian American pilot planned to visit every continent, including a rare stop in Antarctica.

However, Chilean authorities say the Antarctic leg of his trip violated aviation protocols. Prosecutors alleged that Guo submitted “false flight plan data” to air traffic control, securing permission only to fly over Punta Arenas, a city near the southern tip of Chile. Instead, he continued south toward the Chilean Antarctic, landing without authorization.

Legal Charges and Settlement Agreement

On June 29, Guo was formally charged with providing false information to ground control and landing without official clearance. For over six weeks, his movements were restricted within Chilean territory, though he was not held in detention. Instead, he stayed at a Chilean military base due to the extreme winter conditions and lack of available flights out of the region.

On Monday, a Chilean court dismissed the charges under a settlement agreement negotiated between his legal team and prosecutors. The terms require Guo to donate $30,000 to a Chilean children’s cancer foundation within 30 days. He must also leave the country as soon as weather and logistics allow and is barred from reentering Chilean territory for three years.

Following the ruling, Guo told the Associated Press via text message that he was “relieved by the outcome,” expressing optimism about resuming his mission.

Ongoing Logistical Challenges

While Guo is now legally free to depart, severe Antarctic winter conditions continue to delay his exit. Chilean prosecutor Cristián Crisosto stated that Guo’s aircraft “does not have the capabilities to make a flight” from its current location, without specifying the technical issues.

Guo, however, insists he is working with his lawyer to explore the possibility of flying the aircraft out himself.

“I remain in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight,” Guo told AP. “I sincerely hope they give it to me soon so that I and my plane can continue with my original mission.”

In the meantime, Guo is responsible for covering all expenses related to his aircraft’s security, his personal maintenance at the military base, and the eventual cost of his return journey.

Impact on His Global Aviation Goal

Guo’s ambitious project to fly solo across all seven continents aimed to inspire young people and promote charitable giving. The incident, however, has disrupted the final stages of his journey and drawn international attention to the risks of unauthorized travel in remote and environmentally sensitive regions like Antarctica.

Aviation experts note that the Antarctic environment presents extreme challenges even for experienced pilots. Severe weather, limited infrastructure, and strict environmental regulations make unauthorized landings particularly hazardous.

Looking Ahead

Whether Guo will be able to retrieve his aircraft or complete his original goal remains uncertain. The outcome will depend on Chilean aviation authorities, flight safety assessments, and the ability to navigate the harsh Antarctic winter.

For now, Guo’s story serves as a cautionary example for adventurers and influencers undertaking high-profile challenges: careful planning, strict adherence to aviation regulations, and contingency arrangements are crucial to avoiding unintended consequences.