Listen, I think everyone needs to make the best choice of flight instruction that works for them, their budget, goals, etc. I'm just looking to give my 2 cents on ATP as someone who has flown with two mom and pop flight schools, and ATP. Both sides have their pros and cons.

The $ with ATP is high, no way around it, but most students I trained with and knew from other training centers were also done with their training within a year. ATP does help facilitate your application/ entry to some cadet programs, but obviously admission is at the discretion of the airline, not ATP.

It's very clear that they will only keep you on for up to 1500 hours, this isn't hidden. CFIs do not need to do any admin work in order to get hired; it's an option as something of an "internship" in order to have a bit more personal influence over your Indoc date/ training center location. Not everyone gets hired at the end of training to instruct. Sometimes its performance-based/ sometimes its just bad timing in the hiring cycle.

ATP is up front with the costs you'll incur. That doesn't necessarily make the $100K+ in fees easier to swallow, but the prices are up-front. Sally Mae can be excessive, but know what's financially smart for you before you commit to anything. Checkrides are on you (unless there's a promotion they occasionally run), and this is also clearly stated. The training timeline is condensed, and while pricey, they do get you your certs. If you stick to the curriculum/ timeline, it will likely be less than a year (YMMV). My instructors have all been knowledgeable, professional, and easy to fly with. Occasionally I'll hear of a baf apple instructor, the exact same as other flight schools I've trained with, (once discovered, they're often let go from ATP).

I'm switching careers (like a lot of folks), and may have different views/priorities from others. I'm not saying OP is wrong; everyone has their own opinions, but my experience with ATP has been generally positive. You may like what I have to say, or maybe you don't like it- I just want to share my perspective for all those out there seeking information. Shoot me a message if you have questions or comments.

TL;DR ATP is pricey, but is clear about about costs, timeline, job prospects, etc. They don't pay DPE fees (unless you sign up during a promotion). You aren't guaranteed a job on completion, but you don't have to work admin unless you decide to (which could expedite your timeline to an instructor position). You aren't guaranteed acceptance into cadet programs just by being in ATP, but they facilitate the connection. Like most things, it's what you make of it. Do your due diligence to ensure you're making the most informed decision you can in regards to your own flight training.