AI is not the only manufactor using TL as revers levers. All turboprops I know come into my mind (and don't tell me that on turboprops the reverser is less essential than in a medium jet). These levers in between the TL are very common. I remember that there were always pilots having problem with it, but to try first, you have to pull both into idle, which the TAM pilot obviously never tried.
Dani