So is this a name change or a completely different game?

http://pc.ign.com/objects/111/111153.html

Graphics look different...says it's from the World of Tanks devs. So we'll have World of Planes and World of Warplanes? Or is this the same game?

Completely different game by a different developer and publisher, but similar name. Both are planned as MMO's.

World of Planes

World of Warplanes

Che? This blurb makes no sense at all...looks like a (bad) cut and paste from World of Tanks:

World of Warplanes is a team-based massively multiplayer online game dedicated to armored warfare in the mid-20th century. Based on military air dominance ranging from the 1930's through the 1950's, the game's advanced system of vehicle upgrade and development allows you to try out the vehicles and weapons featured in the game. Whether you prefer to exhaust your foes with fast and maneuverable light tanks, punch deep into enemy lines with all-purpose medium tanks, use the power of heavy tanks to eliminate opposing forces, or become a high-powered sniper using long-range artillery, each unit type is extremely lethal and effective when commanded by a true tank ace.

If Gaijin thinks a "massively multiplayer" game is 32 players, then they need to stay away from Eve Online or RO2.