Reports from Chilean authorities indicate that an American teenager has been detained on King George Island in Antarctica following an unauthorized flight attempt. The young pilot, identified as 19-year-old Ethan Guo, was endeavoring to complete a solo flight across all seven continents in a small Cessna aircraft.
According to Cristian Cristoso Rifo, the regional prosecutor of Magallanes and Chilean Antarctica, Guo departed from Punta Arenas airport in southern Chile. The evidence suggests that he submitted a flight plan indicating his intention to fly over Punta Arenas, but not beyond. However, reports indicate that Guo proceeded to conduct an unauthorized flight to King George Island, where he was subsequently detained.
Guo had reportedly been documenting his journey online for over 100 days, having already visited six continents. His stated goal was to raise $1 million for cancer research through St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, inspired by his cousin’s cancer diagnosis in 2021.
Chilean authorities have charged Guo with violating two articles of the Chilean Aeronautical Code. This raises important questions about international air traffic regulations and the protocols for accessing Antarctica. The prosecutor’s office claims that Guo’s actions not only breached national laws but also contravened multiple international rules governing Antarctic access.
This underscores the complexities of international air travel and the strict regulations surrounding flights to remote and environmentally sensitive areas like Antarctica. As this story develops, it will be crucial to consider the balance between individual ambition and the necessity of adhering to established aviation protocols.