I believe it does. Yes, the "traditional" ATP scheme works like that but iCPers get entry into it assuming they meet the basic criteria.
I think it comes down to risk, most iCPers narrowly missed the criteria for Wings which could be down to any number of factors, but they have to have a cut off point.
If they give them (the cadet) the benefit of the doubt and they don't come up with the goods, they've set themselves (CTC) up for a fall. If the cadet goes on the iCP route, comes up with the goods then goes straight into the ATP scheme, they've benefited with the least risk possible.
Could well be wrong.