Troubleshooting High Altitude Issue on RNAV Approaches with A350 FF in X-Plane 12

Your experience with the A350 FF's RNAV approach in X-Plane 12 certainly sounds challenging. Let's delve into some potential causes and solutions.

Firstly, it's crucial to note that the A350 from Flight Factor (FF) and the A320 are fundamentally different aircraft with distinct flight dynamics and autopilot systems. This difference could be a primary factor in the variance you're observing during RNAV approaches.

1. Check for Software Updates
Ensure that your A350 FF add-on is up to date. FlightFactor recently rolled out a beta update (v1.7.01) for the A350, specifically targeting enhancements for X-Plane 12. This update includes fine-tuning of pitch behavior and various improvements in flight dynamics, which might address your altitude issue.

2. Autopilot and Flight Management System (FMS) Settings

• Verify your FMS is correctly programmed for the approach. Ensure that all waypoints, altitudes, and speed constraints are accurately entered.
• Crosscheck the barometric settings (QNH) to ensure they match the ATIS information.
• Inspect the Vertical Navigation (VNAV) settings. Sometimes, incorrect VNAV configurations can lead to altitude discrepancies during approaches.

3. Aircraft Weight and Balance
An often-overlooked aspect is the aircraft's weight and balance. Ensure your A350 is properly loaded as excessive weight can affect the glide path adherence.

4. Pilot Technique

• Monitor your descent profile actively. Sometimes manual intervention might be necessary if the autopilot doesn't capture the glide path as expected.
• Practice different approach scenarios in a variety of weather conditions to understand how the A350 FF behaves.

5. Known Issues and Community Feedback
It's also worth checking community forums for similar experiences and solutions. Often, other pilots may have encountered similar issues and found workarounds or solutions.

6. Reporting Bugs
If you've ruled out the above factors and the issue persists, consider reporting it to FlightFactor or in the X-Plane forums. Detailed bug reports can help developers identify and fix such issues in future updates.

Remember, flight simulation is as much about learning and adapting to different aircraft behaviors as it is about enjoying the virtual skies. Each aircraft has its unique characteristics and mastering them is part of the fun and challenge.

Feel free to share more details or ask further questions. We're here to help each other in this exciting world of flight simulation.

Fly safe!