Flight Crew Last 90 Days 170; Flight Crew Total 15000; Flight Crew Type 700
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Air Traffic Control Issued New Clearance; Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft
We were at 11;000 FT MSL on the arrival when the Number 1 (Left) engine flamed out. The aircraft was night VMC between layers at the time of failure. The Captain (PF) called for maximum continuous thrust and started the APU. He then asked me to set 9;000 FT in the MCP. As I began to look up the ENG FAILURE QRH the flight attendants called. Upon answering they said the cabin lights had failed. I told them we had an engine failure and to prepare for a normal landing and I would get back to them. Things were happening fast. Now back in the QRH the engine self started. I placed the checklist aside for the moment but selected FLT on both igniters. We declared an emergency with Approach. Once all engine parameters stabilized normal at idle the PF attempted to advance the Number 1 throttle. We both recognized a muffled compressor stall and the PF immediately retarded the throttle to idle. Seconds later the engine failed again. I told ATC we needed to get on the ground and he asked if we were ready for the approach. The Captain indicated he was ready and I told the controller we were ready for the approach while I double checked the NAV frequency and ident. We were now IMC. He vectored us to an intercept heading just outside the IAF. The engine again self started. I called the flight attendants and told them we had an engine fail but that it was now operating and that everything from their standpoint would be normal. We broke out VMC and I quickly reviewed the QRH completing it somewhere inside the IAF inbound to the FAF. The Captain selected Autobrakes 4. After clearing the runway we asked the emergency vehicles to escort us to the gate. Concerned the passengers and flight attendants may be startled by the numerous emergency vehicles around the aircraft I made a PA explaining what had happened explaining this was precautionary only. I assured them they were safe and that deplaning would proceed normally. ATC provided exceptional service.
Reporter states that Maintenance replaced the EEC and the high pressure fuel pump for that engine to return the aircraft to service.
Air carrier First Officer describes a number 1 engine flame out at 11;000 FT during descent. An emergency is declared while the failed engine self starts and shuts down two times during the descent and landing.