2022-06 · NASA ASRS report 1906563
B737-700 Captain reported a burning odor and faint smoke at liftoff accompanied with a very hot duct temperature. Flight requested priority handling for an immediate air return to departure airport where a safe overweight landing was executed.
At liftoff; a strong burning smell was noticed in the flight deck and cabin and very faint haze or smoke. The aircraft was very hot and duct temperatures were exceeding 110 degrees Fahrenheit. Landing gear was retracted and the odor seemed to increase initially. There were no warning lights illuminated in the flight deck. We [requested priority] and the decision was made for an immediate return to ZZZ. Flight Attendants; Passengers and Dispatch were notified of our situation. Fumes began dissipating on downwind; but duct temperature would not decrease.We ran appropriate checklists and landing data and prepared for an overweight landing on Runway XX. Upon landing we had the fire trucks inspect the aircraft for signs of fire or smoke. None were noted. We then taxied back to the gate with a fire truck following to confirm no signs of smoke or fire. Upon arrival at gate and after checking on Flight Attendants and Passengers; Dispatch and Maintenance were called and logbook entries were made for discrepancies and overweight landing.
Just after takeoff from Runway XXR in ZZZ. Both Pilots could smell something burning. Supply duct temperature was over 110 with both air/mix valves full cold. Passing approximately 2500 ft. we elected to return to ZZZ. We [requested priority handling] and leveled off. We began to set up on downwind for landing back at ZZZ. During that time; Flight Attendants reported they could smell what they assessed to be plastic burning. In coordination with ATC the flight setup to land on Runway XX. The flight conducted an overweight landing on Runway XX without incident. Airport Rescue and Firefighting trucks met the aircraft and conducted and exterior inspection. They did not see any visible smoke or fire. Flight taxied to gate without further incident.
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Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.
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