B737-800
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Other / Unknown
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Maintenance Action; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft; Human Factors
After takeoff at approximately 4;500 MSL; noticed the aircraft was not pressurizing. At about the same time; the Number 1 Flight Attendant called and said there was a very loud air-leak sound coming from the forward entry door. Leveled off and analysis confirmed aircraft not pressurizing. No door warning lights illuminated and air conditioning and bleed panel was set up normally and normal duct pressure. [We] declared an emergency return; accomplished overweight landing and emergency landing QRH. Referenced the Landing Data Card. Approach and landing were normal and uneventful with touchdown VVI approximately 100 FT/minute. Rolled out to the end to avoid hot brakes and cleared the runway. ARFF confirmed aircraft looked normal and no hot brakes. ARFF followed to gate. Other option would be to burn off fuel and land below max landing [weight]. VMC dry and a very long runway available; considered the above option well within safety limits.
B737-800 Captain notices the aircraft is not pressurizing early in the climb; just before the forward Flight Attendant reports a loud air leak at the forward entry door. Flight returns to the departure airport for an overweight landing.