As a male I have absolutely no problem with this 'policy'.
There is no doubt whatsoever that women are up against it in most walks of life in this 'developed' western society and if you have any doubt about that then you're either too young and idealistic or too myopic to be convinced of any other truth than that which you think is right.
Most of the protesting viewpoints posted here purporting to be voices of reason merely show what a closed mindset women are up against with the slightest opportunity given to redress any imbalance - and it is surely an unjustified imbalance - in our industry is guffawed down with brouhaha and calls of sexism.
So, you actually believe the solution to discrimination is, drumroll, more discrimination.
Amazing.
Women are a minority in aviation, no question. We should discard more qualified and experienced men for lesser female candidates to help this. A 50/50 split is what we should be aiming for! Why? Because its equitable right?
But what about left handed people? A bit over 10% of the population is left handed. What are we doing to ensure they are adequately represented?!
How many Hindu lesbian black guitar playing over 6 foot vegans are being represented in the airline industry?! Does anyone not think of them!?
This is the problem with this ridiculous attitude. The 'rules' needed to redress the absurd requirement for equity in employment are endless.
The alternative is simple. There is only 1 rule. The best person for the job.