Teen Influencer Detained in Antarctica Amid Ambitious Solo Flight Mission
- Jul 3
- 3 min read
3 July 2025
Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old American pilot and social media influencer, found himself unexpectedly grounded in Antarctica after Chilean authorities detained him on June 28 for submitting a misleading flight plan and landing at Lieutenant Rodolfo Marsh Base without permission while attempting a daring solo flight to all seven continents. Guo had departed from Punta Arenas, Chile, aboard a Cessna 182Q, publicly indicating he would only fly over Punta Arenas before veering toward Antarctica. His unapproved landing not only violated the Aeronautical Code but also breached national and international regulations governing access to the remote continent.
Guo launched his journey in May 2024 from Memphis, Tennessee, flying across nearly 60 countries and logging more than 700 flight hours in support of his campaign to raise $1 million for childhood cancer research, inspired by his cousin’s battle with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The mission garnered attention from his 1.3 million Instagram followers, who have closely tracked his progress and supported the fundraising drive for institutions such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital .
Chilean Prosecutor Cristian Crisosto Rifo emphasized that Guo’s actions endangered regional airspace safety and violated “multiple national and international regulations” related to Antarctica’s regulated access. He was formally charged in Punta Arenas and remains detained on King George Island until weather allows for his flight back to the Chilean mainland. The court has imposed a 90-day investigation period during which Guo is barred from leaving Chile.
Guo’s attorney, Karina Ulloa, suggested his decision to land in Antarctica arose from “complications” encountered mid-flight and described it as an exploratory attempt to assess route viability. This explanation contrasts with the prosecution’s assertion that the teen knowingly filed a false flight plan by declaring he would merely overfly Punta Arenas.
The case highlights the unique regulatory framework governing Antarctica, which balances scientific research, environmental preservation, and controlled human activity. Civilian aviation in the region typically requires strict permits coordinated through national Antarctic programs and adherence to environmental protocols. In contrast, Guo’s unsanctioned arrival disrupted these delicate systems and raised red flags regarding both aviation safety and environmental safeguarding.
The broader aviation community has reacted with concern over the inherent challenges of flying to Antarctica, especially for a solo pilot in a small aircraft. Temperatures can plummet below minus‑25 °C, and logistical obstacles range from lack of available fuel to rapidly shifting weather conditions. It is customary for private pilots to collaborate with national programs or licensed tour operators when navigating Antarctic airspace , adding context to why Guo’s unplanned landing provoked scrutiny.
Despite its dramatic nature, the incident did stop his fundraising momentum and raised legal concerns. Guo has not publicly commented since his detention, though his project website continues to highlight the goal of raising $1 million for cancer research a mission that inspired the multi-continental flight in the first place.
More updates are expected in the coming weeks as Chilean authorities continue their investigation, with Guo remaining in Chilean Antarctic territory pending clearance to return to Punta Arenas. Locals and global followers are watching closely, hoping that his journey through legal challenges does not derail the broader pension of his charitable mission.
Ethan Guo’s story weaves together compelling threads of youthful courage, global charity, aviation thrill, and regulatory misstep. His attempt to become the first person to solo-fly to all seven continents in a small aircraft was fueled by love and charitable intent. However, the Antarctic detour shows that noble causes may be grounded by strict rules governing exploration and environmental protection. As he awaits his fate, Guo’s audacious ambition meets a sobering reminder: in uncharted territories, pioneering spirit demands rigorous preparation and respect for international frameworks.
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