Pilot Alters Flight Path in Chile and Lands in Antarctica Without Authorization
He took off from Punta Arenas with an unreported destination and landed in Antarctica without permission—ending up detained by Chile’s Civil Aviation Authority.
An American pilot was detained Saturday at Teniente Marsh airfield in Antarctica after landing without proper authorization, following an unreported change to his flight plan submitted prior to departure from Punta Arenas. Chile’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGAC) confirmed that the route deviation was not communicated to air traffic control services, prompting a search and safety operation.
The young pilot, identified as 19-year-old Ethan Guo, is flying solo aboard a Cessna 182 registered N182WT, aiming to visit all seven continents while raising funds to fight childhood cancer. His campaign, promoted through social media and his personal website, seeks to collect one million dollars for the U.S.-based St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
According to Emol, the DGAC stated that the unreported diversion violated aviation regulations and Antarctic protocols, as operating in polar territory requires special authorization due to the region’s logistical, environmental, and diplomatic constraints.
“This type of maneuver, carried out without coordination with authorities, jeopardizes operational safety and requires the use of public resources for monitoring and response,” the agency noted. It has filed a complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office for potential violations of the Aeronautical Code and existing Antarctic regulations.
Ethan Guo remains in custody while authorities determine any legal responsibilities. On his Instagram account, where he shares updates with over 1.2 million followers, the young pilot says his passion for aviation began at the age of 13.
The incident highlights the regulatory challenges posed by long-distance solo flights—even when driven by humanitarian aims—within an international framework where strict compliance is essential for safety and adherence to multilateral agreements.
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