xPilot is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux - making it the best choice for X-Plane users on any platform.
System Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 10/11, macOS 11 (Big Sur) or later, or a modern Linux distribution
- Simulator: X-Plane 11 or X-Plane 12
- Microphone: Required for voice communication
- Disk space: Additional space needed for CSL model packages (approximately 2-5 GB depending on the package)
- Internet connection: Stable broadband recommended
Installation and Setup
Download xPilot
Visit docs.xpilot-project.org and download the latest version for your operating system.
Run the installer
Run the installer, which sets up both the standalone xPilot application and the X-Plane plugin. The plugin is automatically placed in your X-Plane plugins folder during installation.
Launch xPilot
Open the xPilot application. On first launch, it will guide you through initial configuration.
Enter your VATSIM credentials
In xPilot’s settings, enter your VATSIM CID and password. These are the same credentials you use on the VATSIM website.
Configure audio devices
Select your input device (microphone) and output device (headset or speakers). Test your microphone to make sure the level indicator responds when you speak. See the Audio Setup page for detailed guidance.
Set your push-to-talk key
Assign a push-to-talk (PTT) key or button. Choose something accessible while flying - a joystick button or keyboard key works well.
Install CSL model packages
xPilot requires CSL (Common Shape Library) models to display other pilots’ aircraft. Without CSL models installed, other traffic will be invisible. See the Model Matching page for detailed instructions on downloading and installing CSL packages.
Launch X-Plane and load your aircraft
Open X-Plane and load into your aircraft at a gate or ramp position. Wait until the simulator is fully loaded before connecting.
Key Difference from vPilot
The most important difference between xPilot and vPilot is how other aircraft are displayed. xPilot requires you to install CSL model packages separately. These packages contain 3D aircraft models that X-Plane uses to render other pilots’ planes in your simulator. Without CSL models, you will be connected to the network and able to communicate with ATC, but you will not see any other aircraft around you.Key Settings
| Setting | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Callsign | Your ICAO callsign for the flight | ACA456 |
| Aircraft Type | ICAO type designator for your aircraft | A320, B738, C172 |
| Transponder | Squawk code assigned by ATC (2000 default for IFR, 1200 for VFR) | 2000 |
| CSL Path | The folder path where your CSL model packages are installed | X-Plane/Resources/plugins/xPilot/CSL |
Troubleshooting
xPilot plugin not showing in X-Plane
xPilot plugin not showing in X-Plane
The xPilot plugin should be automatically installed during setup. If it does not appear in X-Plane’s plugin menu, try reinstalling xPilot and make sure you select the correct X-Plane installation directory during the process. You can also manually verify that the plugin files exist in your
X-Plane/Resources/plugins/xPilot/ folder.No other aircraft visible
No other aircraft visible
This almost always means CSL models are not installed or not configured correctly. Open xPilot settings and verify that a valid CSL model path is set. If the path is empty or points to a folder with no models, download and install a CSL package such as Bluebell. See the Model Matching page for step-by-step instructions.
Audio issues - can't hear ATC or ATC can't hear me
Audio issues - can't hear ATC or ATC can't hear me
Check that the correct input and output devices are selected in xPilot’s audio settings. Verify your push-to-talk key is bound and working. On macOS, make sure xPilot has microphone permissions in System Settings under Privacy and Security. Test your microphone at the operating system level to confirm it works outside of xPilot. See the Audio Setup page for comprehensive troubleshooting.
Connection timeout
Connection timeout
Check that your firewall is not blocking xPilot. On Windows, add xPilot to your firewall’s allowed applications list. On macOS, allow incoming connections when prompted. If the problem continues, try selecting a different VATSIM server in xPilot’s settings. Verify your internet connection is stable.
xPilot crashes on launch
xPilot crashes on launch
Make sure you are running the latest version of xPilot. On macOS, you may need to right-click the application and select Open the first time to bypass Gatekeeper. On Linux, verify that the required system libraries are installed as listed on the xPilot documentation site.