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United · Route guide

Chicago (ORD) to Tel Aviv (TLV) Flight Route Guide

Everything you need to fly Chicago to Tel Aviv: when to go, who flies it, what it costs, and how to land well.

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Airline

United

Aircraft

B787-9

Service

4x weekly Year-Round

Region

Middle East

The route

The nonstop route between Chicago O'Hare and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion offers a vital link for travelers connecting the American Midwest with the heart of the Middle East. Operated by United Airlines, this long-haul service bypasses the need for coastal connections, providing a streamlined journey for business travelers, pilgrims, and tourists alike.

This service is a primary international artery for United Airlines, running 4 times weekly. Utilizing the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, the flight covers thousands of miles across the Atlantic and Europe to reach the Mediterranean coast. It is a year-round service designed to accommodate steady demand from the Chicago metropolitan area.

As one of the few direct links from the interior United States to Israel, this route is essential for maintaining economic and cultural ties. It significantly reduces travel time compared to connecting through European hubs or New York, making it the preferred choice for those seeking the most efficient path to Tel Aviv.

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Airports

Taking off, touching down.

Check-in, security, connections and getting into town at both ends of the flight.

Departure

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

ORD

Check-in: International check-in for Tel Aviv usually opens 4 hours before departure; aim to arrive early for enhanced security screening.
Security: Expect additional security questions at the gate area, which is standard for all direct flights to Israel.
Connections: Terminal 1 is the main United hub, offering easy connections from domestic flights.

Arrival

Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV)

TLV

On arrival: Use the automated biometric kiosks to scan your passport and receive your entry slip, which replaces the traditional passport stamp.
Ground transport: The high-speed train to Jerusalem and Tel Aviv Savidor Center is located on the lower level of Terminal 3.
Planning ahead: Note that public transport including trains and buses does not run during Shabbat (Friday evening to Saturday evening).

Timing & fares

When it flies, what it costs.

Schedule & reliability

Schedule: Usually departs Chicago in the late afternoon or evening and arrives in Tel Aviv the following afternoon.
Duration: Westbound return flights are typically longer due to headwinds, often exceeding 13 hours.
Seasonality: Operations remain consistent year-round with occasional schedule adjustments based on daylight savings.
Time zones: Tel Aviv is 8 hours ahead of Chicago Central Time.

Fares & booking

Booking window: 90-120 days out is generally the sweet spot for trans-Atlantic fares to the Middle East.
Cabin advice: Upgrading to Economy Plus provides valuable extra legroom that makes a 12-hour flight significantly more comfortable.
Peak pricing: Prices skyrocket during Passover (Spring) and Sukkot (Fall), so book those dates much earlier.

Monitor prices 3 to 6 months in advance for the most competitive rates.
Look for flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to avoid weekend price premiums.
Consider joining United MileagePlus to earn significant miles on this long-haul route.

Peak season

Summer months and the Jewish High Holiday periods in late autumn.

Shoulder season

Late spring and early autumn outside of holiday weeks.

Off-peak season

January and February typically offer the lowest fares but cooler weather.

Tours and experiences at either end

Vetted day trips and activities in Tel Aviv and Chicago, through our travel partner.

Browse tours

When to fly

Best Time to Fly Chicago to Tel Aviv

01
Spring (March to May)
Ideal weather for exploring the outdoors without the intense summer heat.
02
Fall (September to November)
Pleasant temperatures, though flights can be busier during the High Holidays.

Trip planning

Who this route suits best.

Business Travelers

Direct connection between the Chicago financial hub and the Silicon Wadi tech sector.

Pilgrims

Direct access to the Holy Land for religious tours and historical exploration.

Leisure Tourists

Perfect for those wanting to experience Tel Aviv's beaches and nightlife without stopovers.

Connections & alternatives

Jerusalem

Easily reached via the high-speed rail link directly from the airport.

Haifa

Accessible via direct train service from Terminal 3.

Eilat

Domestic connections are available from Terminal 1 for those heading to the Red Sea.

Field notes

Travel Tips for the Chicago-Tel Aviv Route

Visa & entry

United States citizens generally do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your date of entry.
Keep the blue entry slip provided at arrival with you throughout your stay.

Airport transfers

The train is the fastest way to reach central Tel Aviv or Jerusalem.
Official taxis are regulated and use a meter; avoid unofficial solicitors.
Sherut (shared vans) are available 24/7, including during Shabbat, to major cities.

Baggage & transit

Ensure your luggage meets international size limits as domestic and international requirements can differ.
Pack essentials in your carry-on in case of any checked bag delays on the long journey.
Clearly label your bags with your contact information in both English and Hebrew if possible.

Checklist

Universal power adapter (Types C, H, and M).
Modest clothing for visits to religious and holy sites.
Travel insurance that covers international medical expenses.
A physical or digital copy of your return flight itinerary.

Carriers

Airlines Flying Chicago to Tel Aviv

United

4 flights per week

Exclusively using the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

FAQ

Common questions.

Straight answers about flying Chicago to Tel Aviv.

Does United fly direct from Chicago to Tel Aviv?

Yes, United Airlines operates a direct, nonstop service from Chicago (ORD) to Tel Aviv (TLV).

How long is the flight from ORD to TLV?

The eastbound flight typically takes about 11 hours and 45 minutes, while the westbound flight takes about 13 hours.

What aircraft is used for United flight UA-CHI-TLV?

United typically uses the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for this long-haul route.

How many days a week does United fly this route?

United currently operates this route 4 times per week on a year-round basis.

Is food provided on the Chicago to Tel Aviv flight?

Yes, as a long-haul international flight, United provides full meal service, snacks, and beverages.

Keep exploring

Where to next.

Structured data verified

Airports

O'Hare International Airport (ORD)Tel Aviv (TLV)Chicago O'Hare International Airport Ben Gurion International Airport

Countries & layovers

United States Chicago layover guide Tel Aviv layover guide

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