✈️ Flight Guide: New York (Any) → Tel Aviv (TLV)

May features spring cultural events and festivals in Israel that attract international travelers, making it a lively time to arrive at Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV). Popular activities include Tel Aviv arts festivals, outdoor concerts, art walks, and culinary events in cities like Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa. Travelers from New York should check local event calendars for May dates and book accommodations early if attending major festivals.

The best time to fly from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) in May is early to mid-May before Memorial Day weekend, when fares tend to spike. Midweek flights (Tuesday–Wednesday) usually offer lower fares and less crowded airports. For best value, book 6–10 weeks ahead and consider evening or red-eye departures that arrive in the morning or midday in Tel Aviv.

Direct nonstop flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) save time (about 10–12 hours) and reduce disruption risk but are often pricier. Connecting itineraries via European hubs can lower fares and increase schedule flexibility but add layover time and potential visa/transfer considerations. In May, evaluate total door-to-door time, cost savings, and baggage transfer rules when choosing between nonstop and connecting options.

Major carriers operating NYCA–TLV routes in May typically include full-service international airlines offering nonstop service from JFK and EWR, as well as European and Middle Eastern carriers providing one-stop options. Compare seat comfort, baggage allowances, schedule convenience, and loyalty benefits. When assessing May travel options, prioritize carriers with favorable review scores for long-haul comfort, flexible change policies, and reliable on-time performance.

May travel from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) benefits from mild Mediterranean weather and increased airline capacity. Pack for warm days and cooler nights, stay hydrated during hops to desert destinations like the Dead Sea, and expect busier airports near holiday weekends. Use TSA PreCheck or expedited security where available at departure, prebook airport transfers in Israel, and confirm any seasonal schedule adjustments before leaving.

Nonstop flight duration from New York area airports (primarily JFK or EWR) to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) typically ranges between 10 hours 45 minutes and 11 hours 45 minutes. In May, schedule increases often add late-evening and overnight nonstop options; connecting itineraries via European hubs add 3–8+ hours depending on layover length. Use schedule filters to compare departure windows, and note that seasonal wind variations can affect block times slightly.

To find cheap flights from New York (All Airports) (NYCA) to Ben Gurion International Airport (TLV) in May, use flexible-date searches, sign up for fare alerts, and compare one-stop itineraries via major European hubs like Athens, Rome, or Frankfurt. Midweek departures (Tuesday–Wednesday) often offer lower prices; also consider early-May travel before Memorial Day demand spikes. Use location-based modifiers in your searches such as "JFK to TLV cheap flights May" or "EWR to TLV low fares" and check budget-friendly connecting carriers alongside legacy airlines.

Tips

• Set price alerts 8–12 weeks in advance and monitor for flash sales.
• Compare nonstops vs. one-stop options — one-stop through Europe can save money but adds travel time.
• Use nearby NYC airports (JFK/EWR) for more flight options and potential savings.
• Book midweek departures and return dates outside holiday weekends to reduce fares.