The next server is unannounced, but if tradition follows it will be launched on or soon after when Yeager VI ends on December 20. Although, given the date, there might or might not be a new long term world. Cannot guess too much, as ASTD will surely be looming over the horizon soon. (We were told to expect an announcement soon about this anyway).
The new ORS is not that “new” and has been in principal use since 2019. Compared to the old system, it places a higher emphasis on price and less emphasis on pure ORS service rating to rank options in the ORS, which is used to determine how flights fill based on the demand bases.
I can give you some tips if you want to start the next server on a decent footing:
Do not start in the US, China, or EU - unless you really can, and want, to fight.
Focus on more short and medium-haul networks with multiple midsized planes. Do not just get a 777, and do not get tons of tiny fodder that will not make decent profits. Make sure the planes are utilized well but maintenance is still occuring.
Aim for a middle-ground service, and don’t tinker with prices too much (at least at the beginning, if you do not know what you are doing in that dept).
Keep an eye on your competition. It might be beneficial to sign one or two partnerships in your hub, but remember this is a competition, so you do not want to be helping EVERYONE. Be selective in your other ILs too. You could consider an alliance to form a community and also keep you motivated long-term.
Remember the game is slow and exponential - so at first, it will feel like forever. Be patient, as long as the flights fill and you are making a profit weekly you are on your way. And if you need help, ask around! This community is (mostly) really nice and willing to help.
Check out some of the resources available to you! The handbook, the Yukawa guide, the ASRM tutorial, Pinto’s series on YT… some will be outdated but you will grasp the concepts well.