I'll add my worthless two cents on this subject.

So often, threads on this board devolve into discussions about higher pay and how to achieve it. When Congress first proposed the ATP rule, many supported it because they believed it would increase pay. I think that is debatable, but everyone is entitled to their opinion.

On the other hand, I think the discussion about a four year degree is quite interesting. I have one and, in my opinion, it is the one qualification that can improve pay scales. In general, the higher the education earned, the better the pay. That's a generality, but if high schoolers with 1000 hours are the scorn of high pay, here is a real way to keep them from undercutting the wages.

How often do you run across a guy who graduated high school, spent time at ER or Comair flight training, and is excited just to get a pay check? There's the problem, in my opinion. A four year degree makes the task more difficult, but also more rewarding. Earning both a four year degree in something like business and earning MECL and a CFI shows dedication and a willingness to see things through.

Of course, I am bias, but I think this is something all airlines should require.