Has anyone managed to import/transcode XAVC S footage from a Sony AX53 into Avid v8.6. I have tried Sony's PDZK-MA2 to link via AMA. File format not supported or unknown.

I don't think XAVC-S is supported in Avid. It does support XAVC-L & I, I believe.
You would need to transcode it to something else before importing.
Sony's Catalyst Browse will do this and it offers a variety of Sony codecs, as well as Pro Res, etc.
Plus, it's free which always helps.

I've done some tests with prores and it works results are good. The down side is the increase in file size and transcode time.

I've gone with Blackmagic Resolve - free version. Imports XAVC S fine.

20 years of using Avid and I really like Resolve. I feel I'm ending a relationship.

Thanks for your help.

Testing Sony's Catalyst Browse now. My test involved a cheap 3rd party video converter. Thanks again.

No problem.
Really not sure why Avid hasn't ensured XAVC-S is also compatible. I think it may be viewed by Avid as not a 'Pro' codec like L & I. I know on its forums people have been asking for it.
But, when you're competitors like FCP X, Resolve and Premiere (I think) can all handle XAVC-S with ease, then I think it's a mistake on Avid's part.

Avid, I have given up on Avid and let my subscription go and moved onto Premier Pro, very happy.

Now, XAVC-S is not supported in Avid and it's a real pain as many programs are using this format, the best an cheapest way is to use Edit Ready, just rewrap and then AMA into Avid. I have been using Edit Ready for the past few years with great success.

Thanks for the heads up on edit ready. Will give it a test drive at the weekend.