[CodeToad]

The 1500 hours does NOT mean they MUST become ATP. You are confusing the minimum hours to get an ATP of 1500 with this new requirements. ATP isn’t just the hours but the type of hours and that additional test and checkout.

[Hulka]

I am not mixing things up. . .the ATP, as you noted as I did as well, ensures the pilots achieve a greater level of proficiency and skills.

That affects safety.

[Hulka]

To be more clear, a 1500hr requirement will put the commuter airline in a situation where they will choose between a guy that flew and flew and flew, never getting an ATP (thereby demonstrating no interest in achieving greater skill-sets), and a 1500 pilot with an ATP (demonstrating greater skill-sets).

While the 1500hr requirement doesn't state “ATP,” that will be the result.