Teen Pilot Faces Charges After Unauthorized Antarctica Landing

Seventeen-year-old Ethan Guo’s attempt to become the youngest person to fly solo around the world has come to an abrupt stop in Antarctica after an unauthorized landing sparked legal trouble with Chilean authorities. Guo, flying a specially outfitted Cessna 182Q single-engine aircraft, diverted from his filed flight plan over Punta Arenas, Chile, and instead touched down on King George Island—territory administered by Chile and home to multiple international research stations.

Chilean prosecutors allege that Guo submitted false flight-plan data and entered without the required permits. According to Chile’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation, unauthorized landings in Antarctic territory raise safety, environmental, and diplomatic concerns. The agency confirmed an investigation is underway and noted that penalties can range from fines to future restrictions on flight operations in Chilean-administered airspace.

The legal case has already drawn global attention to the complexities of flying in and obtaining clearances for Antarctic airspace. Supporters of the teen pilot argue that the situation highlights how difficult it is—even for experienced aviators—to coordinate international approvals for remote regions.

Authorities say Guo began his ambitious round-the-world journey earlier this year to inspire other young aviators, with planned stops across North America, Europe, Asia, and South America before heading south to Antarctica. The incident has temporarily grounded both Guo and his aircraft and put his quest for a solo circumnavigation world record on indefinite hold.

Although Chile later dropped the most serious charges after Guo agreed to donate $30,000 to a children’s cancer foundation, leave Chile, and refrain from re-entering Chilean territory for three years, his record-setting flight remains paused. For now, his Cessna 182Q sits idle in Antarctica as authorities finalize their investigation, underscoring the risks and regulatory hurdles of attempting record-breaking polar aviation feats.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, CBS News