MD-83
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Flight Engineer
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 80; Flight Crew Total 13000; Flight Crew Type 3500
Confusion; Situational Awareness
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Deviation - Altitude Excursion From Assigned Altitude
Flight Crew FLC complied w / Automation / Advisory; Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Aircraft
During descent out of approximately 6;000 FT we received a traffic alert immediately followed by a resolution advisory. Followed the alert commands which initially was to climb then later to descend. Contacted ATC was told there was no traffic in the area. The RA remained on the screen for 5 minutes and never received a clear of conflict. Suspect equipment malfunction. Entered discrepancy in AC log and submitted required forms. Initially told there were no injuries but later two flight attendants complained of sore backs.
MD83 Captain experiences traffic alert immediately followed by a resolution advisory upon descending out of 6;000 FT. Commands for climb and descent were received and the target remained co-located and same altitude. ATC reported no traffic in the area.