Another airshow question

So, I'm going to the Lakeland, FL airshow this week. The Thunderbirds will be there.

What I have in the way of lenses for my 40D is:

70-200mm f/4 IS L with or w/o a 1.4x II extender
17-55mm f/2.8
50mm f/1.4

Please don't recommend another longer lens at this time, it just isn't in the budget.

I run hot and cold when it comes to taking pics of fast moving aircraft. Some come out good, some NOT so good.

Static displays are not usually a problem problem. I will use the 17-55mm and 50mm for these.

I've read and re-read the tips here on shooting aircraft/airshows. I plan on shooting in Tv w/the 70-200, IS on of course, stabilizer mode 2.

I'm not yet sure about using the 1.4x extender. I don't really care for the IQ when I use this.

The 40D will be set on Al Servo and low speed continuous.

Does this sound like a good plan?

I take pictures and usually pretty good ones but, I do not consider myself a photographer, if you know what I mean.

I see some really great photos poster here of flying planes and just can't figure out how some of you get these. Don't you ever take bad shots?

Thanks for any tips.

Shooting airshows in Manual

If you don't like it, don't use it. But others seem to have no problem with that combination & I have no problem using the 2X TC with the f/2.8 version.

IMO, you're better off picking your shots one at a time.

Have fun, & be sure to look at the "Similar Threads" links at the bottom-left of this page, too.

Thanks for the response. I've read thru your previous posts, excellent info however, I don't see myself using Manual for shooting an airshow.

Like I said, I take pictures but I'm not a photographer.

I usually shoot moving things like planes in the continuous mode and weed out the bad ones and keep the "keepers."

I have not had much luck w/my 1.4x extender on my 70-200 since day one. Maybe it's me?