Strafing is just fine. Depends on the situation, map size, the Aero's weapon load out, the THN being generated by the targets that turn, era of play, etc. But it's not NEVER. Not even close, IMO.
It's very risky, but if you're firing at stationary vehicles with infantry overlapping, you can get away with sheer mayhem. Or if the target is prone, immobile, unconscious, had movement limited by a previous PSR failure/standing attempt, etc. The key is that your ground units need to present as obvious targets. i.e.: your TSM Mech needs to be standing next to the target. It will either fire at your Aero and get kicked/punched, or fire at the TSM unit and leave the Aero alone. Gotta create that kind of scenario to clear the way.