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American Teen Detained in Antarctica Released But Unable to Depart
Ethan Guo, the 19-year-old American pilot and social media influencer, has been released from detention in Antarctica but remains stranded at a Chilean base due to severe weather conditions. His ordeal began in June 2025 when Chilean authorities arrested him for an unauthorized landing on the continent.
The Flight Against Cancer Campaign
Guo embarked on his "Flight Against Cancer" mission in May 2024, aiming to become the youngest person to fly solo to all seven continents while raising $1 million for childhood cancer research at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. His journey began in Memphis, Tennessee, and had taken him through Dubai, Pakistan, and Australia before reaching South America.
Unauthorized Antarctic Landing
The controversy began on June 28, 2025, when Guo landed his single-engine Cessna 182Q at Chile's Lieutenant Rodolfo Marsh Base on King George Island. Chilean authorities detained him because his submitted flight plan only authorized local flights around Punta Arenas, not Antarctic operations. Guo faced charges under Articles 194 and 197 of the Chilean Aeronautical Code for unauthorized landings and submitting false flight information.
Legal Resolution and Conditions
After six weeks of detention at a military base, Chilean prosecutors withdrew charges on August 11, 2025, under specific conditions: Guo must donate $30,000 to a foundation supporting child cancer victims within 30 days and is banned from entering Chile for three years. He was ordered to leave Antarctica immediately.
Weather Prevents Departure
Despite his release, Antarctica's harsh winter weather has made departure impossible. Chilean officials confirmed Guo's aircraft lacks the capability for safe flight under current conditions. "I remain in Antarctica awaiting permission to depart," Guo told AP. "I hope to continue my original mission soon."
