During the pandemic, in lieu of having guaranteed instructor positions, ATP was offering ATP-CTP course after you’re done with your program.
ATP just sent out an email stating that regional hiring is picking back up and they usually include ATP-CTP when hired, so instead of taking your free course with ATP, you can receive $2000.
Totally your call but it does appear the industry is recovering faster than expected. If you’re still in training that means you’ve got a good 1.5-2yrs before you’ll be in a position to need the course.
I’m a “bird in the hand” kind of guy so if it were me I’d take cash. I’m of the mind the pilot shortage will be worse than pre-covid. Unless you’re seriously considering flying corporate rather than going to the Regionals the course will be of no use to you.
It really depends on you and what your goals are. If your primary goal is to go and work for the airlines, I would absolutely take the refund and let the airlines provide the ATP-CTP training for you. If you are desiring to head off to the corporate world, the ATP-CTP would be beneficial.