American teen influencer Ethan Guo has been trapped in a remote area of Chilean Antarctica since June, turning what was supposed to be a fundraising trip for cancer research into a nightmare.
Guo allegedly gave officials bogus flight plan information, which prompted an investigation, and then unlawfully landed his little plane.
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Last year, Guo made news when the 19-year-old started a journey to try and become the youngest person to travel alone to all seven continents while also raising money for childhood cancer research.
The adolescent, who identifies as Asian American, had intended to visit the Antarctic as part of his journey, but authorities claim he misled them by giving them fictitious flight plan information. He was only permitted to fly above Punta Arenas, according to the prosecution, but he continued southward, bound for Antarctica in his Cessna 182Q, a little aircraft with a single engine that is renowned for its adaptability.
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As part of a deal with his attorneys and Chile’s prosecutors, a court on Monday dropped the accusations against Guo, who was charged on June 29 with giving false information to ground control and landing without permission. To avoid a trial, the adolescent must donate $30,000 to a children’s cancer fund within 30 days. In addition, he is barred from returning to Chile for three years and must depart the country as soon as circumstances permit.
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Following the judge’s decision on Monday, Guo texted The Associated Press to express his relief at the result.
He has been at a military base for the last six weeks since being charged. Although he was merely required to stay on Chilean territory, he was unable to take any flights due to the harsh winter in that region of the southern hemisphere. Furthermore, he has been unable to operate his Cessna.
Without giving any specifics, Chilean prosecutor Cristin Crisoto informed reporters on Monday that Guo’s jet is incapable of taking off. However, according to the American teen influencer, he is speaking with this lawyer to see whether he can get away with it.
Guo told AP, “I’m still in Antarctica waiting for my departure flight to be approved.” I genuinely hope they grant it to me quickly so that I can resume my first purpose with my plane.
Guo must also cover all expenses for his personal upkeep and aircraft protection while he is at the military installation, according to the prosecutor’s office. He must also pay for all of his return-related costs.
