First, thanks to all for the vast amount of information posted here. I've learned much.

I'm retired AF and haven't been in the seat for about 10 years. I'm spinning up to take the ATP-CTP and Written in about 2 months. Plan is then to apply to the Regionals, build a few hundred hours and then try to jump to the Majors. I am right about at the required 1,500 hours for my ATP Cert.

In prep for this transition, I'd like some input regarding flight training to knock off the rust beforehand. Options are Cessna platform w/ G1000, Diamond platform w/ G1000 or a Cirrus w/ their G1000 (which from what I understand is like a G1000 on steroids). I could also just try to find a basic Cessna or Piper platform and get some stick-n-rudder time. Any thoughts on which might be the better training platform and could help in the transition to the Regionals?

Additional item, what about a mix of Single-Engine and Multi-Engine sorties? There are a few Barons around. Is Multi-Engine flying prior to the Regionals helpful? Any other thoughts?

Thanks for your reply.