MD-80 Series (DC-9-80) Undifferentiated or Other Model
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Less Severe; Flight Deck / Cabin / Aircraft Event Smoke / Fire / Fumes / Odor
Aircraft Equipment Problem Dissipated; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Maintenance Action
Aircraft
On climb out; passing thru 10;000 FT flight attendants informed us that there was smoke in the aft cabin; advised ATC and returned to departure airport. The Captain secured the galley power and was in constant communication with the flight attendants. On down wind he informed me that the flight attendants were reporting that the smoke was dissipating. We set up for an overweight landing; (132;200 LBS). Proceeded uneventfully to the gate and were met by the Medics (asthma patient) and Fire/Rescue.
Flight attendant's reported smoke in cabin about 10 minutes into climbout; we chose to get turned back and did so with ATC clearance. Immediately shut off galley power and smoke was reported as clearing and now the new problem was a passenger having an asthma attack and being administered oxygen. Our guess was breathing problems from the smoke/fumes. Got right into the airport First Officer flew a perfect approach to a very smooth landing. Medics; Maintenance; and Fire Team at gate right away; everyone was fine and we got a new plane and headed back out. Overweight landing by about 2;000 LBS but did not choose to loiter with a passenger in need of medical attention.
MD80 flight crew is informed of smoke in the aft cabin passing 10;000 FT and requests a return to the departure airport. Galley power is secured and smoke begins dissipating quickly. Crew is able to quickly land and taxi to the gate where paramedics are waiting to aid a passenger in distress.