Originally Posted by
Packer Backer
Actually, yes! When you slow down like that on downwind and ATC didn't assign it and didn't expect it, you just screwed the entire line behind you and probably threw some into holding. ATC is worried about separation. Slowing down on downwind now will make everybody behind you slow down as well to keep the same separation. Besides that, 250 kts keeps the airplane "clean" and saves gas.
Take a look at the long-range cruise figures for your aircraft. I am sure you will find the airspeed's to be quite a bit less than 250KIAS...