Teen Pilot's Global Flight Aims to Break Record and Fund Cancer Research
A 19-year-old Chinese-American pilot embarks on a solo flight across seven continents, seeking to set a world record and raise funds for childhood cancer research. The 100-day journey faces challenges but pushes on.
Ethan Guo, a 19-year-old Chinese-American pilot, is on a mission to become the youngest person to fly solo across all seven continents. This ambitious journey, which began in May 2024, serves a dual purpose: setting a world record and raising funds for childhood cancer research.
Guo's 100-day expedition aims to cover 50,000 miles and visit 60 countries. As of August 6, 2024, he has completed approximately three months of his journey, recently arriving in Geneva, Switzerland, before heading to Heraklion, Greece.
The young aviator's motivation stems from a personal connection to childhood cancer. His cousin's Stage 4 blood cancer diagnosis inspired Guo to partner with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. While he has raised over $20,000 so far, his ultimate goal is to reach $1 million for cancer research.
Guo's journey to becoming a pilot began at age 13. By 17, he had obtained his pilot's license and accumulated 700 flight hours, including trips to all 48 contiguous United States. His current aircraft is a modified four-seat Cessna 182, adorned with sponsor logos.
The expedition has faced numerous challenges. Guo encountered difficulties securing sponsors, with only about 10% of approached companies offering support. Additionally, his parents initially opposed the project, forcing him to proceed independently with the help of volunteers and supporters.
"I'll be lying to tell you if I wasn't scared. But every day I reaffirm myself. I say 'This is what I believe in.' (...) So I'm going to fight on until the very end."
Aware of the potential dangers, Guo has made extensive preparations. His aircraft is equipped with cold-weather gear for Antarctica, a desert survival kit, and an inflatable raft for water landings. He has already faced an engine failure early in the trip, underscoring the real risks involved.
Despite these challenges, Guo remains committed to his goals. While he doesn't envision a career in aviation, focusing instead on business and technology, this journey represents a personal challenge and an opportunity to make a positive impact on the world.
As Guo continues his flight, supporters can track his progress on the website flightagainstcancer.com. His attempt to break the world record is being monitored by Guinness World Records Ltd., although official confirmation is pending.
