An American teenager, Ethan Guo, 19, has been detained on King George Island in Antarctica for allegedly submitting a false flight plan, causing a significant delay in his attempt to fly his small plane to every continent.
The island, claimed by Chile, is home to several international research stations and their staff, where temperatures typically drop below freezing in July.
According to Chilean authorities, Guo deviated from his planned flight path, activating alert protocols, which led to his detention at Teniente R. Marsh airport.
Regional prosecutor Cristian Cristoso Rifo stated that Guo had submitted a plan to fly over Punta Arenas, but not beyond, whereas he actually flew to King George Island. Guo has been charged with violating two articles of Chile’s aeronautical code, including one that could result in short-term imprisonment.
The Chilean General Directorate of Civil Aeronautics also alleges that Guo violated the Antarctic Treaty, regulating international relations with respect to the continent. Guo’s actions posed safety risks for air traffic to the frozen continent, Cristoso added. Despite this setback, Guo’s determination to complete his journey is evident in his social media posts.
Guo has flown his Cessna aircraft to all six other continents in his journey spanning over 140 days and aims to become the first pilot to complete solo flights across all seven continents. His mission also aims to raise $1 million for cancer research at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, inspired by his cousin’s 2021 cancer diagnosis. On Wednesday, Guo posted an update on X, saying, “I’m alive everyone, I’ll make an update soon.”
This incident highlights the challenges and complexities involved in such adventurous endeavors, especially when navigating international regulations and territories. As Guo faces potential penalties for his actions, his story has garnered significant online attention, with over a million people following his journey.