I can pass anecdotally that I have seen a LOT of fighter guys getting the call at AA. I think the goal is a good mix of mil/civ (see--we debate pros/cons but the airlines apparently want both!).

Connections and friends are probably important too. If you are a hard-working bro in a fighter squadron, actually try to do as much airline flying as you can and not just dropping a ton of mil leave on the company, I can see how hiring more "just like you...." would be appealing. I suspect some of that is in play as well. I wish we had more of that at FedEx....I still thing the BEST predictor of a guys worth as an employee and fellow crewmember is the testimony of the guys who have worked with him/her for years and seen the work ethic and skill in action. Tests and shrinks aside--I would never recommend a douchebag for my own company, and most of the guys I know wouldn't either. Sometimes old school ideas really work....