Exactly! having only 25% of player that we use to have is NOT awesome.
Once the emphasis on fighter planes, map making, and squad play start to pick up, the player base will increase again! Maps make a huge difference in this game, believe it or not.
I also think planes make a big difference. If everyone is in 190Ds and high alt fighter to be able to "extend" from any slight of trouble or bad playing, then you create an arena full of super fast planes and timid flyers. Just my opinion though.