An American pilot, Ethan Guo, who was arrested upon landing in Chilean Antarctica over 40 days ago, has expressed his frustration as he remains unable to fly out despite the suspension of his case. Guo aimed to become the youngest individual to fly solo to all seven continents while raising funds for cancer research, but his journey took an unexpected turn when he was accused of illegally landing in Chilean territory within Antarctica.
In late June, while attempting to travel from Chile to Ushuaia, Argentina, Guo encountered severe challenges. He reported to ABC News that he lost radio transmission and experienced engine failure, forcing him to divert to Antarctica. He landed on a remote island off the coast, believing he was adhering to necessary protocols. Guo's attorney has stated that he received explicit permission to land at a Chilean base; however, upon arrival, he was arrested on charges of providing false flight information and violating international regulations regarding the Antarctic continent.
This week, a Chilean court suspended Guo's case, requiring him to donate $30,000 to a local charity as part of the stipulations for dropping the charges. Additionally, Guo has been prohibited from re-entering Chilean territory for three years. Despite expressing gratitude for the suspension of charges, Guo remains frustrated, feeling that he has been wrongfully detained and wishing for a quicker resolution.
Guo has shared that he has lost weight during this ordeal and likened his situation to being a prisoner on the base. He claims that although he is technically free to leave, Chilean officials have repeatedly prevented him from flying out. His attorney confirmed that despite Guo's exoneration, the Chilean government has not permitted him to fly his airworthy plane off the base.
Guo has been given various reasons for the continued restrictions on his departure, including claims that his plane is unfit to fly, lacks sufficient fuel, that he does not possess the necessary skills, and that the weather conditions are unfavorable. Guo vehemently disputes all these statements, asserting, "I have all the paperwork. I have insurance that even covers Antarctica. The plane has enough fuel, the plane is working. And I am a qualified pilot."
While Guo has considered the possibility of leaving by boat, he noted that such transport options are infrequent, with no boats having departed since his arrival at the base. He expressed a strong desire to return to flying and continue his fundraising mission, which he embarked on last year at the age of 19, aiming to raise up to $1 million for research into childhood cancer. "I want to be able to continue to fight against cancer and continue the mission," he stated.
As Ethan Guo continues to navigate the complexities of his situation in Chilean Antarctica, he remains hopeful that he can soon resume his journey. His determination to raise funds for cancer research and his resolve to clear his name highlight the challenges faced by adventurers seeking to make a difference in the world.
