Best Lenses for Aviation Photography: 100-400mm vs 150-600mm?

Hey fellow aviation photographers! I'm looking to upgrade my lens setup and am torn between two options. I've been using a Canon R5 and have primarily shot with a 70-200mm lens. However, I'm finding it a bit limiting for capturing aircraft in action, especially at larger airports like LAX (Los Angeles International Airport) or JFK (John F. Kennedy International Airport).

I'm considering either the Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II or the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport. I shoot mostly during the day, but sometimes I like to stay for night shots. My main concern is balancing reach with image quality and portability.

For those who have experience with these lenses, how do they perform in terms of autofocus speed and sharpness? Also, how do you find the handling when you're out spotting for extended periods? Would love to hear your thoughts and any sample shots you'd like to share! Thanks in advance for your help!

I've used both lenses with my Canon R5, and they each have their strengths. The Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II is fantastic for its portability and image quality. Its autofocus is quick, which is great for capturing fast-moving aircraft. The image stabilization is solid, making it versatile for handheld shots, especially during the day.

The Sigma 150-600mm gives you the extra reach, which is invaluable at large airports like LAX and JFK, where spotting from a distance is common. However, it's heavier, which can be taxing during extended sessions. Its autofocus is decent, though not as fast as the Canon's.

For night shots, both lenses will need good light, but the Canon might edge out slightly due to slightly better low-light performance. If reach is your priority, go with the Sigma; otherwise, the Canon is a solid all-rounder.