Teen flies plane solo to 7 continents for THIS cause
Chinese-American teenager, Ethan Guo, is on a mission to become the youngest person to fly solo across all seven continents. The 19-year-old's ambitious journey is not just about setting records; it's also a fundraising effort for cancer research. This cause is close to Guo's heart as his cousin battles stage four blood cancer.
Guo's journey: From Memphis to Geneva
Guo embarked on his flight in May from Memphis, Tennessee. Since then, he has visited seven countries, with his most recent stop being Geneva, Switzerland. His next destination is Heraklion, the capital of the Greek island of Crete. The young pilot's journey is a testament to his determination and passion for flying and philanthropy.
Overcoming challenges: Guo's journey amid risks
Guo's ambitious journey was initially delayed due to insurance companies' reluctance to cover a minor undertaking such a risky voyage. He openly acknowledged that his experiences, such as an engine failure at the start of the trip, made him confront the reality that he could face death at any moment during the journey. Despite these hurdles, Guo remains committed to his cause.
Guo's preparations and fundraising efforts for cancer research
Despite the risks, Guo is taking numerous precautions including carrying cold weather gear, desert survival kits, and inflatable life rafts. His plan involves covering 80,467 km in 100 days with stops in 60 countries. He aims to raise $1 million (₹8.3 crore) for cancer research and has partnered with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. So far, he has raised over $20,000 (₹16 lakh approx.) for the cause.
Securing sponsorship and future aspirations
To make his venture possible, Guo sought sponsorship from numerous companies. However, only about one in 10 agreed to sponsor him. These sponsors' logos now adorn his modified four-seater Cessna 182. Despite his current high-flying endeavor, Guo's future aspirations lie in business or tech. He initially took up piloting as a personal challenge and has since turned it into a philanthropic mission.
