Provo4departure, I did exactly what you described using my VA Education benefits at ATP Jets in Ft Worth. ATP Jets is very familiar with the process of how to use your VA benefits for the type rating. It was my first type rating as well. The rating was not easy but I really enjoyed it. In my opinion it really helped me and reduced my stress at training with JetBlue(I’m on the 320). With JetBlue’s current manning situation I would go to Spirit. You will end up with the same seniority number after the merger but you will be guaranteed the bus. Good luck you will do fine!