I think that just because people with different versions can join doesn't make them compatible. I can't seem to find the relevant link, but in one of Luthier's posts it was mentioned that if people with different beta versions fly on a server that's running another version they will be able to connect fine but all sorts of weird things will happen.
I have a feeling that many of the problems people face is due to this. We've had three beta patches since the last official patch and there's people running all of them, this is something that could greatly influence and skew the perspective and your testing results.
Speaking for myself, i refrain from joining any MP servers until the next official patch because i think i'll cause more trouble than provide valuable feedback due to the reasons above. It might be beneficial to politely insist that the guys flying on your server use the same version it is using to minimize potential issues.
I hope you understand what i mean, not trying to play smart here, just remembered that post by Luthier and thought i might save you some trouble