We (American Airlines) have been having a lot of problems with faults during flap extension and cracks in the slats due to extending them at or near the limits. We actually have a company imposed limit of 240 knots for flaps 1,2 and 5. They are asking us to try to wait until we are near the bug (ie: UP, 1, 5) before going to the next setting. They want us to use speed brakes or gear to slow the plane when necessary. My brother flies the 737 for Continental and surprisingly Boeing has told them that they use the speed brakes too much. I didn't know that was possible.

I can't imagine using spoilers too much, that's funny! Although considering how every pilot I've heard talk about NG spoilers, they seem to suggest they're rather useless. I'd love to know if the NG speedbrakes/spoliers are just as worthless in other aircraft. As far as flaps, I'd think it would be logical to keep the extension speed well below at each deployment. I've always been told they are not to be used for slowing.

I can't imagine using spoilers too much, that's funny! Although considering how every pilot I've heard talk about NG spoilers, they seem to suggest they're rather useless. I'd love to know if the NG speedbrakes/spoliers are just as worthless in other aircraft. As far as flaps, I'd think it would be logical to keep the extension speed well below at each deployment. I've always been told they are not to be used for slowing.

I noticed that the spoilers are not as efficient as other aircraft so I'll drop the gear to help slow me down. You just have to make sure your below the maximum gear extension speed.Dan Schultz