A SF-340 flight crew reported electrical anomalies shortly after takeoff; including a burning smell and abnormal indications. They declared an emergency and returned for a safe landing at departure airport.
Synopsis
A SF-340 flight crew reported electrical anomalies shortly after takeoff; including a burning smell and abnormal indications. They declared an emergency and returned for a safe landing at departure airport.
Narrative
Upon completion of the after takeoff checklist [we] observed erroneous warnings and status lights on instrument panel. Indications included: L/H side very bright solid Master Warning; and L Oil Press CWP light; no chime or aural notification; very bright T/O inhibit (blue) light; R/H #2 PFD bright; [then] dim; and then extinguished; and also very erroneous cabin press CWP light; along with visual cues; experienced a very acrid burning electric/plastic smell in the flight deck. Verified engine instruments and cabin pressure indications normal and asked Flight Attendant to confirm the smell which she did immediately and urgently. Discussed situation with First Officer and agreed emergency declaration necessary.At this point indications had changed to: Master Warning/Master Caution both sides dimly lit; all CWP lights dimly lit. First Officer was in control of aircraft complying with all ATC instructions while I notified Dispatch; Flight Attendant; and passengers of our emergency and intentions of returning to [departure airport]. Approach and landing phases of flight proceeded as normal; reviewing all applicable checklists and the landing was uneventful. Upon taxi off of the runway evaluated situation and due to lack of smoke; fumes; or any other hindrance proceeded to gate accompanied by ARFF and completed after landing checklist. Once parked shutdown engines and commenced shutdown checklist with no further incident; and upon visual inspection by ARFF and security of passengers ensured; canceled emergency with Ground Control.
Second reporter narrative
The Captain and I decided an emergency return was necessary. We discussed putting the O2 masks on but decided to wait until we saw smoke. The Captain asked if I was ok flying the airplane with the loss of PFD#2 and I said yes. I took the #1 radio and continued to fly. He continued to organize the return while I took the Comm #1 back and continued to fly the plane. After being cleared for the approach and setting up the Flight Director; I noticed it was giving erroneous commands. The Captain asked if I wanted him to take the controls since my PFD#2 was out and I told him I was ok since it was VFR and he agreed. We continued approach and landed airplane as planned. The cause of the malfunction is unknown.
Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.