American Influencer Released from Chilean Air Force Base

After two months stuck at an air force base in Chile, an American social media influencer was released back to the mainland on Saturday, following a hefty fine of $30,000.

Ethan Guo, aged 19, had aimed to be the youngest person to solo on all seven continents while also raising funds for cancer research. Quite an ambitious endeavor, right?

Unfortunately, Guo found himself in hot water after Chilean authorities accused him of providing “false flight planning data.” He initially received clearance to fly over Punta Arenas but instead headed straight to Antarctica in a Cessna 182Q, a versatile single-engine aircraft.

After landing on Chilean Antarctic territory on June 28, he was detained at a military base while his lawyer negotiated with the government. Originally from Tennessee, Guo turned 20 while living at the base, all while enduring harsh, subzero Antarctic winter conditions and limited communication.

A Chilean judge eventually released Guo, stipulating he must donate a substantial portion of the funds he raised to the Children’s Cancer Foundation within 30 days. He also has to leave the country promptly and is banned from returning for three years.

Guo’s lawyer, Jaime Barientos, informed the media that Guo had a valid basis to land after navigating around adverse weather. Barientos expressed his relief following the agreement with the authorities.

On his release, Guo wore a Chilean national soccer team jersey and arrived in Punta Arenas aboard a naval ship. He seemed to be in good spirits, describing his detention as a “mediocre” experience with “limited freedom.” He also expressed gratitude, noting, “The Chilean people were incredibly kind. They took care of me and even taught me some Spanish.”