B737-400
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Multiengine
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 60; Flight Crew Total 11000; Flight Crew Type 750
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Aircraft
We are performing flight testing of a new concept in-flight system (not related to power-plant or failure experienced). The mission required us to perform low level passes at various aircraft configurations over [the runway] at 200 FT AGL. Prior Tower coordination occurred and the operations were authorized. We were operating VFR in left closed traffic at the time of the incident. On downwind turning base; (190 KIAS; Gear UP; Flaps 1) we experienced an N1 and N2 Rollback on Engine 1 accompanied by a high EGT (Approximately 900-996 degrees C). We shut down and secured ENG 1; configured to GEAR DOWN; Flaps 15; notified the Tower of the situation; and performed a visual single engine landing to a full stop and exited the runway. We were met by ARFF equipment on the parallel taxiway and shut down the engines. Upon visual inspection; no external defects and no fire was noted to the engines or airframe. The aircraft was towed back to the hangar for inspection and maintenance. There were no injuries and no damage to equipment or property nor was there any closure to the runway; taxiways; or facilities.
B737-400 Captain reports an engine failure in the traffic pattern while conducting flight testing of in flight systems not related to the engine failure. The failed engine is secured and a single engine approach and landing ensues.