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

Hey fellow spotters! I'm looking to upgrade my lens and am torn between a 100-400mm and a 150-600mm for aviation photography. I've been using a Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L on my Canon EOS R6, but I'm starting to feel the need for more reach, especially when shooting at larger airports like LAX (LAX) and JFK (JFK) where the planes are often further away.

I've heard great things about both the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM and the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary. The 100-400mm seems more versatile and lighter for handheld shots, which is great for long days of spotting. On the other hand, the 150-600mm might be ideal for those distant runway shots.

Does anyone have experience with either of these lenses, particularly for aviation photography? How do they handle in different lighting conditions and with fast-moving subjects? Also, how do you find the weight and portability of these lenses during a full day of spotting? Any advice would be much appreciated!

I've used both lenses for spotting at airports like LAX and JFK, each with its unique advantages. The Canon RF 100-400mm is fantastic for versatility and easier to handle during long spotting sessions. It's lighter, which reduces fatigue, and its focal range is often sufficient for most situations, especially if you can get relatively close to the action.

However, the Sigma 150-600mm shines for those far-off shots where you can't easily access closer vantage points. It's a bit heavier, so a monopod or tripod can be useful, but the extra reach is invaluable at larger airports. In low light, the Sigma's wider aperture at 600mm can be a slight advantage for capturing fast-moving aircraft. Consider your typical shooting conditions and how much mobility you need when choosing between these two.