101 Emergency Landing: Controller Talks Down Student Pilot After Oil Covers Windshield

Summary: On Sept 30, 2018, a student pilot with 4 hours solo time departed Potomac Airfield on a cross country flight. Within minutes after takeoff, she noticed oil starting to cover the windshield. She immediately requested a vector from Potomac Approach controller Casey Whitaker to return to the airport. Her first attempt to land had her skimming the treetops of the neighborhood next to the airfield.