What is the minimum altitude for speedbrake extension?

• A. 250'
• B. 1,000'
• C. 750'
• D. 500'

Answer: (D)

Extending the speedbrakes changes the airplane’s drag and lift balance, so you want to limit when you do it to keep a safe margin for handling and possible go-arounds. The aircraft’s procedures specify a minimum of 500 feet AGL for speedbrake extension. That gives you enough room to confirm energy state, airspeed, and configuration, decelerate as needed, and still have time to react if a go-around or reconfiguration becomes necessary. Lower than that reduces your chance to recover safely, while higher values would unnecessarily restrict deceleration margins. So 500 feet is the correct minimum.