In summary:
1. Read the contract thoroughly, and have a lawyer do the same and advise you on it.
2. Do not pay AAI for a type rating. If you do, it WILL only be a matter of time before they shaft you.
3. Beware of advice offered at PPRuNe by so called "Senior check/training guys" who may NEVER have been employed there.
4. If you do join up; beware of the head-games that they play.
5. Whatever happens, avoid the AAI compulsion to take short cuts.
6. If you can get something else instead; take it!
7. Never agree on something unless you have it in writing.
8. Payment may or may not be on time.
9. Beware of Jerry O'Chip-on-the-shoulder! He has more faces than a used-care salesman!
10. If you already have a type rating, try Dragonair, NCA, European first!