Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old American influencer known for his ambitious goal to be the first solo pilot to fly to all seven continents, encountered difficulty during his expedition when he was detained in Antarctica. Guo is now subject to a 90-day investigation in Chile due to allegations of altering his flight plan without proper authorization. The aspiring aviator, who has amassed over a million followers on Instagram, is undertaking this journey as a fundraising initiative aiming to raise $1 million for cancer research, inspired by his cousin’s battle with the disease.
According to reports, Guo filed a flight plan indicating that he would fly over Punta Arenas, Chile, but instead diverted towards Antarctica without notifying authorities. He allegedly landed at the Lieutenant Rodolfo Marsh Base, located in Chilean Antarctic territory, which led to concerns about air traffic safety in the region. Cristian Crisosto Rifo, the Regional Prosecutor of Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, expressed that Guo’s actions posed a serious risk to air traffic safety.
Guo has been capturing and sharing his adventure online since September, with his recent posts documenting flights over various locations, including the Philippines. His lawyer, Karina Ulloa, has suggested that the young pilot faced “complications” during his flight, reiterating that he was merely conducting an exploratory journey. Despite the legal challenges ahead, Guo’s determination to fulfill his goal and raise cancer awareness continues to resonate with many.
This story highlights not only Guo’s adventurous spirit but also the importance of adhering to aviation regulations, especially in sensitive regions like Antarctica. As the investigation progresses, Guo’s case serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with such ambitious endeavors.