I'll take the challenge Whirly.
El, there are quite a few differences between the European system and the US system.
Just a simplified explanation;
Since most countries are ICAO member states they must meet ICAO regulations as far as licensing is concerned.
So both JAA (Europe) and FAA (united States) require 1500 flight hours for the ATPL.
A pilot career course in Europe would look like this (minor variations possible)
- PPL
- ATPL ground school (14 exams, generally takes 6-9 months of ground school)
- CPL Single engine VFR only
- Multi engine and Instrument rating
the fact that you hold a JAA CPL and have passed the 14 ATPL exams makes you hold what is called a "frozen ATPL".
It means you have met the academic requirements but not the flight time requirements.
The Airline will require the "frozen ATPL" and the MCC is a multi crew course where you learn how to work as a team.
In the US things work a little differently:
- PPL
- Instrument rating
- Single & Multi Commercial + IR
- A single ATP written test
A flight test required when you reach the 1500 hrs for the issuance of an ATP.
In the US they don't know the "frozen ATPL" construction, you either have the requirements or you don't. That simple.
If Delta Connection were to offer an ATP course it would look like this:
PPL
Instrument rating
Single & Multi engine Commercial + IR
1250 hrs of timebuilding
The total training package would cost something like $250,000
The intend is that you get a job after you get your CPL and work for those 1500 hrs not pay for them.