American Influencer Ethan Guo Released from Antarctic Air Base
Introduction
American pilot and social media influencer Ethan Guo has been released from the Antarctic air base after being stranded there for two months. The situation began when Guo landed his plane at the Chilean airbase without permission, leading to his confinement. However, after a lengthy stay, he was finally allowed to return to the mainland on Saturday.
Stranded in Antarctica
The 27-year-old influencer, known for his adventurous and daring stunts, had been on a mission to travel to all seven continents. However, his journey came to an abrupt halt when he landed his plane at the Chilean airbase in Antarctica without permission. This led to his confinement in the base for two months, with his social media followers eagerly awaiting his return.
Release and Impact
After much anticipation, Guo was finally released and able to continue his travels. While some may criticize his actions as reckless, others see him as an inspiration for pushing boundaries and going after his dreams. The incident also brings attention to the importance of following rules and respecting the environment. Despite the challenges and obstacles, Guo's journey serves as a reminder to never give up and to always strive for new experiences and adventures.
About the People Mentioned
Ethan Guo
Ethan Guo is a 19-year-old Asian American pilot and influencer pursuing a historic solo flight to all seven continents in a small aircraft to raise $1 million for cancer research at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.[1][3][4] Inspired by his cousin's 2021 diagnosis with stage 4 blood cancer, Guo began the journey in September 2024 from Memphis, Tennessee, visiting hospitals on six continents—North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia—to meet child cancer patients and promote awareness.[1][3][4] Guo developed his aviation passion at age 13, earning a private pilot license at 17 through homeschooling to prioritize training; he is now IFR-rated, capable of instrument-only flight.[1][4] He has logged over 700 flight hours, visiting all 48 contiguous U.S. states and crossing the Atlantic three times.[1][4] Funds come from social media content, collaborations, and donations via his website.[1][4] In chess, California's Candidate Master Ethan Guo excelled at the 2025 FIDE World Cadets & Youth Rapid & Blitz Championships in Rhodes, Greece (April 13-17), winning gold in Under-12 Open Blitz (10/11) and bronze in Under-12 Open Rapid (8.5/11), gaining over 100 FIDE rating points.[2] Currently, Guo faces a setback in Antarctica, where Chilean authorities grounded his plane, alleging he deviated from his approved path into a Chile-claimed sector without clearance and filed a false plan.[1][3] Stranded at a remote outpost with daily costs of $600, he risks prosecution unless he pays $30,000 to a children's cancer charity within 30 days, leaves Chile immediately, and stays out for three years.[3] His lawyer cites mechanical issues on an exploratory flight, disputed by prosecutors.[3] Compliance could allow departure by early October via military vessel or commercial flight.[3]
About the Organizations Mentioned
Chilean Airbase
The **Chilean Air Force** (Fuerza Aérea de Chile, FACh) is the aerial warfare branch of Chile's military, tasked with defending national airspace, supporting ground operations, and contributing to strategic national defense objectives. Established in the early 20th century, it is the fourth oldest independent air force globally, preceding the U.S. Air Force by 17 years, reflecting Chile’s early commitment to aerial defense and technological advancement[2]. FACh operates under three main commands: Combat, Logistics, and Personnel. Its operational units are organized into five air brigades located strategically across Chile, including bases in Iquique, Santiago, Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas, and Antofagasta. Additionally, it maintains an airbase on King George Island in Antarctica, underscoring its strategic reach in remote regions[1][2][4]. The force fields approximately 277 aircraft as of 2025, comprising a diverse fleet including 59 combat aircraft, 87 helicopters, 65 training planes, 49 transports, and 17 special mission aircraft. Notably, Chile’s combat aircraft inventory includes advanced U.S.-origin F-16 fighters—both Block 50 and reconditioned Block 15 models—placing it among Latin America's most capable air forces[2][4]. Historically, the Chilean Air Force has continuously evolved its capabilities, serving as a foundation for Chile's broader aerospace system. Its roles span peacetime airspace control, wartime combat, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and support of allied forces[2]. FACh's commitment to interoperability is highlighted by joint exercises with U.S. Special Operations Command, showcasing advanced tactics such as forward arming and refueling points, airborne insertions, and integrated intelligence sharing using platforms like the U-28A Draco[6]. Current notable aspects include its integration of advanced aerospace technology, strategic positioning with multiple airbases, including the Antarctic, and active partnerships with international force
