You're welcome.
When I went to ATP, the program cost was considerably less than it is today. But, to answer your question, yes, I did take a loan for the full amount, plus checkrides (back then, checkrides were cheaper, too).
Whether you are prepared to pay back the loan is certainly something that you'll have to consider before you take on that kind of debt burden. Everyone's financial situation is different, and I wouldn't give advice on how you do it. I will say that yes, it is a challenge to earn a living as a new, low time pilot and pay back a large loan--but there are lots of FOs and flight instructors out there who do it.
This is definitely an industry where the fruits of your sacrifice take some time to develop.
I'm not sure if ATP has any connections with the Canadian regional airlines. I haven't seen or heard of anyone going there after ATP so I would doubt it.
You'll have to do research about the licensing requirements to work as a pilot in Canada. Just because you would have an FAA commercial license does not necessarily mean that you can work under that certificate in Canada. Also, will the airlines even hire you if you are not Canadian? For example, I would have a hard time going to certain countries in Europe and working as a pilot. Just a whole host of issues to look into.
I'm sorry I wasn't able to be more helpful on this one.
Jeremy
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