Have you actually seen the syllabus???

Take a look at the 14 ATPL exams. They cover subjects like climatology and international ops. 700 hours study is the norm before taking the 14 exams. It is impossible to take all 14 at once due to the very high workload. Most split them up and take just 3 at a time. Most require to re-take 1 or more tests. The 2008 pass rate is 86%.

Then take a look at the amount of CRM. Then take a look at what's involved with getting a type (including tighter PTS) and approx 5 months IOE before the sign off.

Compare that to Irwin Gleim's easy Commercial book, virtually no CRM, and a couple of 4 day "domestic" trips in a user friendly rj not equiped for overwater ops.

In the US, you won't see half this stuff until you get to a major and it will be your airline that trains you. You are not required to be tested on it in the ATP exam like the EU guys are.

"Just different?"

The learning curve is steeper. No question about it.

AL