dde
The ATPL is not an alternative to the IR.
They are two different animals and are not interchangeable.
A PPL can have a IR and fly in controlled airspace down to a very low minima depending on the navaids used as per the limits in the Aerad with all the benefits that brings.
An ATPL pilot cannot do these things unless he has a IR.
Likewise an IR pilot cannot fly for hire and reward unless holding a CPL/ATPL.
Normally on fixed wing an ATPL without an IR is useless.
