"The Que"
This antiquainted communist / socialist view that promotion is derived from start date is unfortunately alive it seems.
Why should a person be promoted over someone else purely due to a start date? Why should it not go to the better suited applicant? Does flying skill, experinece (on type and other), professionalism and airmanship not come into? No it seems - just based on a date, full stop.
The sad fact of life is that different airlines have differing cultures, good, bad or indifferent. What works for one (or so it seems for them) doesn't work for another. You don't like where you are, leave.
There is (unfortunately) a place for unions - the need to bow down or force the issue of the lowest common denominator will always be needed.
Not meant to be a wind up - but I'm sure it'll raise some heated comments. Again, just my view and no one said I am right. (but I believe so!). Just an opinion that anyone is welcomed to disagree with.