Whilst I don't know a lot about ATA, I did train for my PPL at Midland Air Training next door. MATS is an excellent outfit that will train students not only to basic PPL standard, but also to IMC, Night & Multi ratings.
The Instructors, facilites and Aircraft are excellent and are (IMHO) probably the best on the Airfield.
With regard to the Airfield itself, well it has all the bells and whistles and is practically under the BHX Zone, so you have to have your wits about you. Furthermore, the ATC guys are some of the best I have met and they are exceptionally freindly, especially when things perhaps don't go quite to plan. All in all and from what I have heard about ATA, I believe you are making a choice.
Good luck & see you around C.T. sometime.
Cheers
C.N.
[ 10 January 2002: Message edited by: Captain Numpty ]</p>