Teen Pilot's Charges Dropped After Antarctic Detention

Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old aspiring aviator, has had his charges dropped and is waiting for departure from Antarctica to continue his quest to fly to all seven continents while raising funds for cancer research.

Ethan Guo, an American teen pilot and influencer, had all charges against him dropped after his unexpected detainment on King George Island in Antarctica, where he was stuck for months. Guo, 19, aims to be the youngest pilot to fly solo to all seven continents as part of a fundraising initiative for cancer research.

The young aviator had landed his small Cessna 182Q aircraft in Chilean territory, which sparked accusations of providing misleading flight plan details. Authorities had originally charged him with submitting false information and unauthorized landing, but a judge dismissed these allegations on Monday. As part of the ruling, Guo is to make a $30,000 donation to a children's cancer foundation and will not be allowed to re-enter Chilean territory for a period of three years.

Guo commenced his journey last year, with plans to raise $1 million for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, inspired by his cousin's cancer diagnosis. He had successfully visited six continents before attempting the flight to King George Island in June. However, he was arrested upon arrival at the island, which hosts various international research stations and personnel.

Despite the challenges posed by his detainment, Guo has remained optimistic. Following the judge's judgment, he expressed his eagerness to depart from the island. "I remain in Antarctica awaiting approval for my departure flight," he told the Associated Press. "I sincerely hope they give it to me soon so that I and my plane can continue with my original mission."

Currently at a military base on the island, Guo has faced extended delays due to the region's harsh winter conditions. He has logged 140 days in the sky throughout his adventures, bringing him closer to his goal and inspiring hope for childhood cancer research through his journey.