There been some new developments about the SpanAir crash in Spain that happened last month. Initial reports was that the MD-80 had an engine failure, or fire. There were some speculation that the flight crew didn't handle the procedure correctly for a loss of engine power. The accident happened after the second attempt to takeoff. 
However, accident investigators looked at the Flight Data Recorder which indicated that the flaps/slats were not extended for takeoff. Why? you probably are wondering? I am seeing a lot of chain of events here. 
There's no way to forget setting the flaps/slats because the airplane yells at you. There is an loud audio warning as you attempt a taking off that warns you that the slats/flaps are not confirgure. It appears this device was not working, or MEL. Mel means minimum equipment list. The FAA allows you to fly with certain equipment not working as long as its fixed by a certain time. Its important to know that this warning system didn't cause the accident. Its certainly a big piece in a long chain of events. The accident is still in the early stages & a final report will come out soon. It would not surprise me if the accident investigators site the carriers financial woes as a problem too.