Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your April journey
April departures from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) combine seasonal demand with improving weather. Travelers should expect a mix of business and spring-break leisure traffic; plan on arriving three hours before international departures and use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR to speed screening. Airlines may operate seasonal nonstop services or increase frequencies in April—check specific carrier schedules. For ground access, the CTA Blue Line, express shuttles, and rideshares provide reliable options. If you fly out of adjacent airports in the region, compare prices and schedules from Milwaukee or Indianapolis for potential savings. Book early, monitor price alerts, and prepare travel documents for a smooth April departure to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV).
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) remains a major international hub in April with increased spring travel. Expect typical security and TSA procedures, allow 3 hours for international departures, and check for seasonal schedule changes from carriers serving ORD–TLV. Monitor weather advisories (spring storms can cause delays) and confirm your international documentation and COVID/vaccination requirements before you fly.
April is a shoulder-to-peak travel month at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) as spring break and Easter travel overlap; mornings and late afternoons tend to be busiest. To avoid crowds, travel mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday), use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if eligible, and choose earlier nonstop departure windows when available. Booking earlier check-in and selecting off-peak times reduces stress and the likelihood of missed connections.
Airlines serving the ORD–TLV market in April typically include United Airlines (seasonal/charter nonstops), Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa (one-stop via Europe), and other major carriers via connecting hubs. Direct nonstops may be seasonal and depend on airline schedules, so check carrier timetables for April departures. Booking early improves chances of securing limited nonstop seats when they are offered.
From downtown Chicago to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), you can take the CTA Blue Line train, airport shuttles, rideshares (Uber/Lyft), taxis, or private car services. In April the CTA Blue Line is often the most reliable and cost-effective option, taking about 45 minutes from the Loop depending on time of day. Account for traffic during spring events and allow extra time if traveling during peak hours.
For April travel from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), pack light layers—Chicago spring can be cool while Israel is warming up. Carry travel documents, proof of vaccination if required, and any medication in original packaging with prescriptions. Follow customs rules for declaring goods; Israel has restrictions on certain agricultural items and controlled substances.
To find competitive April fares from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), compare prices across aggregator sites, sign up for fare alerts, and be flexible on travel dates—midweek departures often cost less. Consider one-stop flights via European hubs for lower prices, and book 6–10 weeks in advance for the best spring deals.
Arriving at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in April means pleasant spring temperatures and the possibility of holiday travel peaks (Passover and other observances). Expect efficient immigration but plan for increased passenger volume during holiday weeks. Use the airport rail link for fast access to Tel Aviv, and book taxis or pre-arranged transfers for Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and Eilat. April is an excellent month for sightseeing—Jerusalem's Old City and the Mediterranean coast around Tel Aviv are comfortable for walking tours. Check local holiday calendars and reserve accommodations early to secure the best options.
Upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in April, expect efficient passport control and baggage handling, though queues can grow during holiday periods like Passover. April weather in Israel is mild to warm—bring a light jacket for evenings. Plan transit to Tel Aviv or Jerusalem in advance since taxis, shared shuttles, and train services connect the airport to major destinations.
Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) offers fast rail service to Tel Aviv and onward connections to Jerusalem (via bus or taxi) and regional buses to Haifa and other cities. In April the train schedule runs regularly and is usually the fastest option to Tel Aviv’s city center. Private taxis and pre-booked shuttle transfers are convenient for direct trips to Jerusalem, the Dead Sea, and Eilat.
U.S. citizens typically receive a short-stay entry stamp on arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), but visa rules can change—check official Israeli government guidance before traveling in April. Ensure your passport has sufficient validity, and be prepared to show return/onward tickets and proof of accommodation. Special health measures or additional screenings may apply seasonally; verify requirements close to departure.
April often coincides with Jewish holidays like Passover and sometimes Independence Day observances, which can increase traveler volume and security measures at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). Expect busier immigration lines and higher demand for ground transport during holiday windows. Plan arrivals on off-peak days if possible and allow extra time for processing and luggage collection.
Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) provides duty-free shopping, baggage services, currency exchange, tourist information, and free Wi-Fi across terminals. In April, many shops and restaurants operate extended hours to accommodate peak travel days; lounges are available for many international carriers and credit-card holders. For onward connections to Haifa, Eilat, or the Dead Sea region, consult the airport tourist desks for scheduled shuttles and bus timetables.
Currency exchange booths and ATMs are available after baggage claim at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV), though rates are often better in city centers like Tel Aviv or Jerusalem. Several Israeli mobile providers have kiosks in the arrival hall offering tourist SIM cards and eSIM activation—April is a good time to compare short-term data plans for spring travel. Consider pre-ordering a SIM or eSIM to speed connectivity on arrival.
April often brings notable cultural and religious events that can affect travel to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV). Key Israeli events include Passover (a major holiday that can increase domestic and inbound travel), the Jerusalem Marathon (usually in March/April), and various Tel Aviv spring festivals featuring food, music, and arts. In Chicago, spring festivals, baseball season, and cultural events around the Loop and northern neighborhoods increase local travel to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Expect higher airfare and hotel demand around Israeli holidays—book early and secure airport transfers in advance.
For April travel, the best time to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is often mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday) excluding holiday peaks like Passover. Early April and late April shoulder days usually offer better prices than holiday windows. Book 6–10 weeks in advance, and target red-eye departures for potential savings and daytime arrival in Tel Aviv. If you prefer fewer crowds, avoid arrival/departure dates that coincide with major Israeli holidays or school vacation periods.
Direct flights (when available) minimize travel time—typically around 11–12.5 hours—and reduce the risk of missed connections or baggage delays. However, they can be more expensive and are often seasonal. Connecting flights through hubs like Istanbul, Frankfurt, or Athens may save money and increase schedule flexibility, although total travel time and connection risk increase. For April travelers who value time over price, a nonstop (if scheduled) is preferable; budget-conscious travelers may opt for one-stop routings and longer layovers for cheaper fares.
United Airlines often offers seasonal nonstop service connecting Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in peak months; their product typically includes multiple fare classes and a steady network of connections. Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa commonly provide one-stop itineraries with competitive pricing and strong hub connections. El Al (when operating various US routes) focuses on Israel-specific services and premium options. Compare baggage allowances, seat pitch, onboard meals, and loyalty benefits—Turkish and Lufthansa may offer fewer nonstop options but more flexible schedules, while United's nonstop (if available) is the fastest route.
April travel between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) benefits from moderate weather in Israel and variable spring conditions in the U.S. Pack lightweight layers for warm days and cooler evenings in Israel and a rain jacket for unpredictable Chicago spring showers. To minimize jet lag, adjust sleep schedules a few days before departure, stay hydrated during the flight, and expose yourself to daylight upon arrival. During holiday weeks, pre-book transfers and accommodations, and allow extra time for security and immigration processing.
Typical nonstop flight time between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) is approximately 11 to 12.5 hours depending on winds and routing. One-stop itineraries via European or Middle Eastern hubs usually range from 13 to 20+ hours including layovers. Tel Aviv operates on Israel Standard Time (UTC+2) in April and may observe daylight saving (UTC+3) depending on the year—Chicago is on Central Daylight Time (UTC-5) in April. Always confirm exact departure and arrival times and allow for airport processing time when planning connections.
To secure cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) in April, use fare comparison engines and set multiple price alerts. Be flexible with departure/return dates—shifting by one or two days can yield significant savings. Consider one-stop itineraries via European hubs (Istanbul, Frankfurt, Athens) which frequently undercut nonstop fares. Book 6–10 weeks ahead for April travel; last-minute bargains are rare during holiday weeks like Passover. Use loyalty points, student or senior discounts, and check alternate nearby airports (Milwaukee, Indianapolis) for lower fare options.
