Charges Dropped for Teen Pilot Stranded in Antarctica

A teenage pilot and cancer research advocate, detained after landing in Antarctica, sees charges dropped and prepares to resume his journey.

Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old American influencer and aspiring pilot, has had the charges against him dropped after being stranded on King George Island in Antarctica since June. The legal troubles stemmed from an alleged unauthorized landing in Chilean territory while Guo was on a quest to fly solo to all seven continents in support of childhood cancer research. Initially, he faced criticism from local authorities for providing misleading information about his flight plans, which led to an investigation.

Guo made headlines in previous months as he sought to become the youngest individual to complete this global aviation feat, already visiting six of the seven continents. His journey commenced from Punta Arenas, Chile, leading to his landing on King George Island. Upon arrival, he was detained and accused of not following the proper authorization for landing.

In a turning point this week, a judge dismissed the charges against him and ordered that he must make a $30,000 contribution to a children's cancer charity. Additionally, he is required to stay out of Chile for three years. Following the ruling, Guo expressed his eagerness to depart from Antarctica: "I remain in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight... I sincerely hope they give it to me soon so that I and my plane can continue with my original mission."

After spending over a month at a military station on the island, the young pilot now looks forward to completing his mission, which has become increasingly significant to him following his cousin's cancer diagnosis. His aim remains focused on raising $1 million to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, as he continues his ambitious journey across continents and skies.