Exactly. To add to nepotism, I never hear complaints (from myself included) about people being hired with the help of friendships, golf buddies, squadron buddies etc.. I am willing to bet that there is more preferential interviewing/hiring based on these factors than there is with affirmative action.

If the minimum qualifications are met, then what's the problem? If an airline wants to hire what one or a few people say is the less experienced candidate, they can. Do you have to like it? No. However, ultimately, no one is owed a job.