The Ethan Guo Antarctic detention has ended after the 19-year-old American pilot settled with Chilean officials. In late June, Chilean officials charged Guo with breaching aviation rules after he made an unauthorized landing during his solo journey across seven continents.
His journey aimed to raise $1 million for childhood cancer research, inspired by his cousin’s fight against severe blood cancer. On Monday, a Chilean judge approved an agreement requiring Guo to donate $30,000 to a children’s cancer foundation within 30 days.
He must also cover his aircraft security costs and personal expenses while leaving the Chilean Antarctic Territory immediately, barred from returning for three years. Guo began his 2024 adventure planning to visit 35 countries, including Alaska, documenting every step for over one million social media followers.
The trip has seen him navigate severe weather, make emergency landings, and handle tense encounters with officials in multiple international jurisdictions. The young pilot’s global mission will resume with the detention issue resolved.
