Waveguide type directional antenna

Did you use a calculator for the values?

Also you can’t really use the optimize script.
Better check signal values in the direction the antenna is pointed manually.
You could also use my html folder that colors aircraft track by signal strength. (Coloring planes according to signal level)

Using too much gain will probably get you more planes but you could be having too much gain in the direction you are trying to receive.
Also you seem to have pointed the antenna up slightly that shouldn’t be necessary (i think).
Maybe experiment with the optimum elevation above horizon.