The small numbers is a self-causing problem.  No one logs in because no one is logged in.
Usually it takes a squad squad of 4 or so to log in before it becomes active.  Last night JG-54/Class Acts was locked in combat trying to defend a base in LWOrange, it was a hoot!  I imagine though it'll pick up, Tunisia is usually one of the more active maps.
I very much enjoy the P-40 vs 109-E/F especially if Dedalos or another good stick is in the P-40.