An MD11 returned to the departure airport due to failed fuel boost pumps.
Synopsis
An MD11 returned to the departure airport due to failed fuel boost pumps.
Narrative
The Fuel Tank 1 Pump Aft was deferred after starting the # 1 engine prior to the flight leg. After a return to the gate and having Maintenance defer the Tank 1 Aft Pump; we blocked out again. Passing through 6;000' the Level 1 Tank 1 Pumps Off EAD (Engine and Alert Display) alert came on. We confirmed that the tank 1 forward pump was inoperative on the Fuel Page. It stayed inoperative for approximately two minutes. We requested to level off at 9;000'. I suspected a more serious problem...fuel contamination; since it involved both pumps in tank 1. In the interest of safety; we did not perform the AOM Procedure for the Level 1 Tank 1 Pumps OFF procedure and returned immediately to the departure airport. The copilot contacted the Company and requested a return authorization to change destination back to ZZZ. The Dispatcher concurred and advised it would be sent through the ACARS. In the mean time; we started getting vectors to the runway. After a couple of minutes; we were within 8 miles of the Outer Marker. Within a couple of miles from the outer marker; I instructed the First Officer to declare an emergency since we didn't have the authorization in hand. The authorization finally came through as we were passing the outer marker. We made an uneventful landing.
Second reporter narrative
The pump resumed operation after approximatley 2 minutes. During the event we did not consult the AOM. Having concern over losing two fuel pumps in the same tank and being within 30 miles of the departure airport; we determined in the interest of safety to return to the airport immediately.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.