This needs looking into by the US authorities
Nobody, irrespective of age or sex, should have been sent on a first cross country in this sort of terrain, especially not in an aeroplane probably incapable of climbing clear of the surrounding high ground.
Add to this the fact that her navigational skills seem to have been at best rudimentary, and you have the makings of a serious accident. She was very lucky to get away alive and in one piece.
I think the US authorities should move in and start asking some pointed questions.
BP.