Originally Posted by
satchip
Maybe not, but it will go a long way towards solving the problem. First, an ATP requirement will give these low quality entrants some valuable experience and development. Maybe it will weed out the real morons. Secondly, the laws of supply and demand work both ways. by limiting the supply the price will rise. This should in turn attract more qualified and smarter people.
Well - that is the problem in the last few years. There was some strong growth at the regionals, so airlines kept lowering minimums to attract pilots - until they couldn't go any lower (Commercial certificate minimums). Places like Colgan or Mesa don't raise the pay - they lower the standards.
Hopefully having the ATP as a requirement will set a minimum standard and do what you suggest. Also - it would reduce the attractiveness of quickie schools.