Europe has structured the ATPL into a free gift to any fATPL pilot reaching 1500hrs with the MCC time etc. So, since the ATPL is basically a bogus thing over here for anybody with a RHS MCC job
This is a misconception IO. The vital bit you omit is that you need to have a Type Rating on a multipilot aircraft. The European system is more restrictive than the US one, in that it is harder to get an ATPL.
The US ATP can be done in two ways. The "GA" route, where you get 1500hrs and the various other hours requirements, the ATP written and then you take a check ride on a piston twin (or even single) just like any other check ride. Alternatively, you do a Type Rating. TRs are all to ATP standard, and when you pass a TR, if you meet the requirements for an ATP, the Examiner can issue you an ATP along with the Type Rating.
This is absolutely equivalent to the EASA method - except the EASA method includes 3 additional criteria: you must have the MCC qualification, you must have a TR on a multipilot aircraft and you must have 500hrs of multicrew time.
Englishal,
I think there should be an ATP(L) test personally.
There is. It's the Type Rating you need to qualify for an ATPL.
Think of all Type Ratings as being ATPL checkrides. The US (and other ICAO countries) have an easier/more flexible route to get an ATPL by taking a checkride on a Type that doesn't require a TR.
brgds
421C