Thanks notafinger,
I understand. I'm forced to the conclusion that its just not possible to expect 'The BoB' on a public server. Even in SOWC the servers just can't handle large numbers so its very limited and I think that's the only reason I'd be interested in a MMO. I was raised, 'virtually', on Air Warrior and Aces High where you could expect 300-400 players in a big scenario run over several weekends.
Ah, the ol' days.