There are a FEW superintendent nominations that the academy can give out to individuals they REALLY WANT but didn't get a nomination through traditional means. But these are very few. It is not something I would count on.
Bottom line: You MUST, without exception, HAVE A NOMINATION, or you CAN'T receive an appointment. There is no waivering of this. There is no way around it. If you don't have a nomination, you can not and will not receive an appointment. Like I mentioned, there are a very few nominations that the superintendent of the academy can give out, but these are so few and extremely rare. The academy would really have to want you badly.
If you have nominations, and appointment offers to one of the other academies; and you DON'T HAVE an appointment to the air force academy; you should pretty much make up your mind to accept the other offers.
That's exactly why it surprises me that some kids are still in the game without a NOM. I would not expect my DS to get a Supt NOM, but he did apply for VP(again only 5 Available). He has accepted WP, and is very honored to be going to his first choice! He was open to attending either of the three academies I mentioned earlier, and was advised to apply to them. Its just interesting seeing how all of the admissions play out.
I hope all of those still waiting receive some good news soon, and truly admire all of the hard work and dedication so many have given, especially the repeat applicants!
I also hope that for those not receiving an appointment, that they continue to chase their dream of commissioning and serving our great country and to ultimately reach that goal!