A320
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 269; Flight Crew Total 12000; Flight Crew Type 2500
Troubleshooting
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Air Traffic Control Provided Assistance; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Requested ATC Assistance / Clarification; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Equipment / Tooling
During initial cockpit setup procedures I noticed a somewhat strong acrid electrical burning smell. Lead FA confirmed the smell and I entered a MRM and issued a follow-up call to MX. Within 5-10 mins the smell had dissipated by the time MX arrived. MX signed off and released the aircraft. Pushback; start; taxi and right seat takeoff were all uneventful and normal.At approximately 2000 AGL during the departure; we noticed the same strong acrid electrical burning smell; donned O2 Mask and established crew communications. Immediately following we observed the Blower Fault ECAM message. The FO selected AP2 and I accomplished the ECAM procedures. During the ECAM procedure the aft FA called saying '...we have strong fumes in the cabin'. I [advised ATC] and requested immediate return to the departure airport. I gave the FO the aircraft and radios while I updated the FMC; coordinated the return with the FAs and made a cabin announcements. We entered a left base 4-5 miles outside the marker at approximately 220 kts. I transferred control from the FO and completed an uneventful stabilized approach and overweight landing. The FO made a cabin announcement for the passengers to remain in their seats; we contacted ground; the fire department; and taxied to the gate.
Flight crew experienced fumes in the cockpit during climbout followed by an equipment cooling alert. Crew elected to return to the departure airport. Landing was uneventful followed by taxi to the gate.