Oh boy...unbelievable the world we live in today!!
Everybody wants something for nothing, or they want what someone else has (insert foreign country ab initio program here)!
The FARs state that no one may act as a PIC or SIC in a part 121 operation without an ATP...period. There is your FAR, no need to quote the actual FAR...look it up yourself. This has been beat to death throughout APC.
Since the FAA passed this new regulation, 121 carriers had to increase there hiring mins to ATP. The FAA also requires the ATP-CTP course in order to even take the written test. That being the case, the airlines technically can't hire you until you meet the requirements to obtain your ATP. ATP-CTP is one of those requirements, much like having the required experience is also a requirement.
It would be different if the airline sent you a 1099 for your type training, since that training is required by the airline on their equipment in order to operate. Ab inito programs are great, but whether they are implemented or not depends on supply and demand.
Could the airlines do all of this in house, possibly and who knows, maybe US airlines will in the future, but that is not the case right now. Due to union contracts and other issues, it is also very difficult to implement an in house ATP-CTP program that would be fair for everyone.
I myself need to do the ATP-CTP and am thankful that Republic along with many of the other regionals, will cover the costs, including lodging and travel I might add.
When did this profession become inundated with so many whiners instead of winners. I know pilots can complain like the best of em, but lets at least find something worth complaining about!
Bottom line, if you want everything handed to you on a silver platter, you are in the wrong profession, matter of fact you are on the wrong planet...work hard, have fun and don't worry about things you can do nothing about. I love aviation, even with all of its issues, which every industry has by the way and the airlines have come a long way since I flew for a regional 10 years ago.