A returning Veteran

Hello everybody! I need a bit of help.
I had participated in the SR2 beta testing and played for a while before going away till the aircraft controls were improved.
I just returned yesterday to Droo and noticed the new engines and the plane stuff. Though it's a bit overwhelming,I'll learn somehow,like I did when I was new here.
Can anyone give me an idea about the current trends,current average skill level of the community etc,kinda like helping me 'wake up from my hibernation.'
I used to visit the site sometimes so I get the picture a little.