That's the way I'm leaning. According to the instructor I'll have the option.

I recommend ALLATP in Denver. They have the PA44-180s with G500. The G500 is easy to learn and ALLATP have good instructors that teach everything you need to know for your checkride. The checkride is very fair, no suprises.

I took my written through Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst at their education center. I only have to pay for the Shepperd Air prep. I have been talking to Carl at Accessible Aviation in Mississippi that is primarily devoted to military. He is a very friendly and knowledgeable guy. You may find it difficult to get ahold of him since he is probably swamped with business.

It's not that Carl is swamped with business -- he is completely unorganized.

His program gets the job done, don't get me wrong. But, there are much better options, and cheaper, out there.

I just started flying as a part time CFI in the Cirrus, and I'll tell you that learning on that glass is tough initially! I had been out of the cockpit for 2 years, and I flew and fumbled like a brand new pilot until about my 5th training flight! If you've never flown glass...I would be VERY heisitant to go right into an ATP...of course this advice comes from a guy who is a notorious slow starter!!!

On a side note...I'll ask the question again...anyone know of a VA approved ATP flight checker in SOCAL?? I finally found one (SDFTI) but they only have one aircraft (which they rent) and it is in some type of FAA hold now....and are basically giving me the run around...and ALLATP doesn't have a ATP checker...(ironic right?!?!)

T-6 pilot- Where do you recommend?

What does everyone think of Crew Pilot Training in Miami? I just signed up with them for a 737 Type w/ATP...

Had a very positive experience with Sanders Aviation out of Jasper, AL. PM if you want contact information.

Lake, et al....

First, my opinion is barely worth $.02, so take it for what it's worth.

In an earlier post, I mentioned Downtown Aviation in Memphis, TN - which is who I went thru. In and out the door in 24 hrs and $1433 (including examiner fee). Go back a few posts to read more info.

** There are a ton of military folks I know who are VERY, VERY satisfied with the program.

In the end, the golden ticket (ATP) should be done that fits your timeframe, budget, and learning desires.

I've heard good things about Sanders Aviation in Jasper as well.....

For anyone in the Boston area...go to Joint Base Cape Cod and take the ATP written for free at the Coast Guard Air Station education center. PM me for details. For the practical, try East Coast Aero Club. They fly a Seminole with traditional gauges and a 430W (very easy plane to fly) and they have a DPE on their staff. DPE is ex-USAF and very fair.