MD-83
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft
Shortly after gear retraction the left engine began to have compressor stalls. The throttle was retarded and the stalls stopped. I informed ATC that we were returning to the field and declaring an emergency. I requested the men and equipment to standby. The First Officer and I discussed our options and possibilities. I briefed the flight attendants about our situation and made a PA to the passengers informing them we were returning to the airport due to an engine problem. The First Officer and I briefed the approach and decided to use flaps 28 in case of an engine failure. After completing checklists we landed overweight. The landing was smooth and I shut down the left engine after stopping on the runway. I elected to remain on the runway until we were inspected by the Fire Department. After we were informed of no fire or visible damage we taxied to the gate and deplaned without further incident.
An MD-83 flight crew declared an emergency and returned to their departure airport without incident after experiencing compressor stalls from the left engine shortly after takeoff.