I should say the scenario you just illustrated here matches with one of my friend. He was told he could not apply just because he was one week older than the age limit. Sad but true.
But if at all such a situation arises, then probably he/she must think of trying to find a job as an instructor or with some private charters where a one to one interaction with the HR happens even before you apply and I am sure they would if they were really that passionate about flying to quit the earlier job. Final aim should be to fly and earn decent enough while you gain hours to make yourselves suitable to apply in airlines.