It's an issue with how fighters are coded, and is not limited to bombers. The same problem can be seen with scouts. If they're not coming at them just right (and same altitude), they always try to get behind the enemy before firing. The best way to counter their poor interception and chasing habits is to engage the bombers as far out as possible. I usually position them to intercept near the enemy battle line, which means that, with the exception of some impressive microing, even massive swarms of TBs usually get wiped out before they can attack my team.
If using locals, you have a similar need despite the low range. Try and engage at least halfway between the battle lines.
Also, if you know bombers are coming, spread your fighters out so that no matter how they try and go, you can engage with at least one squadron quickly. For intercepting bombers, it's much better to use squadrons of 2-3 planes spread out over a wide area, even if you have low level fighters and it means you can't get all of them. I'd rather reliably get half before they drop than have an all-or-nothing chance.