What about rail? I don't see the parallel (no pun intended). So what if they start out at $60K, do any train drivers anywhere make $250K? I'd guess not.
Think about it this way- there are no private train instructors, pipeline patrol trains, float trains, or really any trains that hold fewer than 200 people. The low pay for pilots starting out is a reflection of the amount of revenue the aircraft they are flying generates. Does a C150 generate the same amount of revenue as a 150-car freight train? No. So it pays less. Now does a 150-car freight train generate the same revenue as a 400 passenger jet? Probably in the ballpark, but the pilot of that jet must have a lot more training, and ultimately has a more demanding job with more responsibilitiy. Thus the greater pay. It really isn't complicated when you step outside of your frustration and look at the big picture.
Anyway the original question was answered in the 2nd post. In North America there are no direct entry airline jobs because of the vast GA industry. Airlines can look for and get applicants that already have thousands of hours, so they do.