When I was studying I asked all the airlines for work exp, with the general response being we dont have the resources to offer work experience... I ended up applying for a part-time job with the airline that I have been working for the past 2 years, and I got it while still studying my travel and tourism diploma. To be honest, I had never even heard of this airline until this job opportunity came up - so my advice is to go in search of the lesser known small airlines, as they tend to be MUCH more accommodating in terms of work exp and you may even get a job out of it, which will then get you that foot in the door.
the airline industry is such an incestuous one, where you'll find that there seems to be movement around quite a bit once you're in the industry. Well - in NewZealand anyways!
Hope you find something soon... I wouldnt give up working in this environment for anything!
trafficBoy