Chilean Antarctic strands American teen influencer; continued isolation persists
19-Year-Old Pilot Stranded in Antarctica After Illegal Landing
Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old American pilot, found himself in hot water after landing his small plane illegally in Chilean Antarctica in late June 2025. The incident occurred when Guo reportedly lost radio transmission and experienced engine failure, leading him to divert and land on a remote island without the required permit.
Chilean authorities charged Guo with providing false flight information and violating international regulations for Antarctica. His case was suspended after over 40 days, with the court ordering him to donate $30,000 to a local charity, aligning with his fundraising goal for children's cancer research.
Guo's plane, a Cessna 182Q, is a single-engine light aircraft known for its versatility. However, according to Chilean prosecutor Cristian Crisoto, the plane is not capable of making the flight under the conditions Guo encountered.
Guo has been staying at a military base for the past six weeks due to severe winter conditions in Antarctica preventing him from taking available flights or flying his Cessna. He is currently awaiting approval for his departure flight from Antarctica.
Guo's original mission was a fundraising effort for cancer research. He made headlines last year for attempting to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents while collecting donations for childhood cancer research.
However, Guo's actions in Antarctica are being investigated by authorities. He has been prohibited from re-entering Chilean territory for three years and must leave Chile as soon as conditions allow. Guo maintains he received explicit permission to land and feels relieved but insists he did nothing wrong.
This incident highlights the complex regulations governing Antarctica and the consequences of non-compliance, even in the context of humanitarian fundraising efforts. Guo is currently discussing with his lawyer about the possibility of flying his plane and covering all costs for aircraft security, personal maintenance during his stay at the military facility, as well as all expenses for his return.
[1] Chilean Authorities Charge Ethan Guo for Illegal Landing in Antarctica [2] Ethan Guo Donates $30,000 to Children's Cancer Foundation to Avoid Trial [3] Ethan Guo's Future Travel Restrictions and Stranded Situation in Antarctica
[1] Despite his fundraising efforts for children's cancer research, Ethan Guo faces charges for violating international regulations after illegally landing in Chilean Antarctica. [2] To avoid a trial, Guo agreed to donate $30,000 to a local charity, sparking a unique form of adventure-travel controversy.
