Probably only applies to 121, I don't think they are going to change the requirements for a base commercial. That is already adequate for what it is intended for...traffic watch in a 172 or as a starting point for the CFI certs.

This compromise is actually good news...with all of the special interests involved I was concerned that the whole ATP concept would just get stalled in congress and fade away. This looks like they are serious about getting it done, and compromise was probably the only way.

800 hours is better than 250, especially if there are some other requirements to go with it.

I am wondering if the big flight schools managed to modify the requirements (other than the 1500 hours) to suite their own interests. If advanced aircraft training is required, the big schools might end up being the only way to get it. Smaller schools will not be able to afford or King-air or whatever.

It might be cost prohibitive for many folks to pay for the training if they cannot get a 135 or 91 job which meets the requirement. They may end up having to wait until they get 1200+ hours anyway before they can get into advanced airplanes.

If there are not enough paid opportunities, it might actually create a shortage of entry-level pilots. This might be bad if taken to extremes.