Originally Posted by livetwice

As an ExecPlat, I've noticed over the years that almost all AA pilots extend the flaps for takeoff just after pushback. Recently, I started flying RJs operated by PSA and Piedmont. On the ERJ145, I've had a few flights now where the pilots didn't extend the flaps until we were mid-taxi and nearing the runway. This delay freaks me out every time, even though I think there are takeoff config warnings that would go off in the cockpit if they actually forgot to set flaps before beginning the roll. Should I be concerned about this, or is this SOP? These pilots aren't forgetting to set flaps, are they?

(FWIW, these flights have been in summer, and I understand icing conditions require delayed flaps.)