I've seen a lot of complaints about Last Exile, based on the use of riflemen in rows. However, those who complain that the battles in Last Exile don't make any sense are completely correct, and also missing the point. The battles are completely show battles, limited to specific tactics at the behest of a higher authority. Really, it's more like jousting with airships than warfare.

It's worth pointing out that realistic tactics can be used in aerial warfare and are very effective, even though they are decried as unchivalrous.