There is little information on the behavioural and physiological experiences of horses during air transport. Long and short haul air transports were compared to determine if there were differences in behaviour and heart rates. Resting heart rates were determined prior to transportation. Body postures and social activities were recorded during the air transport. The behaviour and physiology of 16 horses were recorded during short haul flights (3-4 hours). Loading and unloading the truck and aircraft, and during ascent and descent, resulted in significantly higher heart rates compared to resting values or when in flight. During flight, the horses had close to resting heart rates and also sometimes doze and rest. However, during ascent and descent aggression and submission would increase and postural changes would occur to maintain balance. There were no differences in behavioural and physiological responses in the 19 horses that were studied during long haul flights (10-15 hours). Based on these results, horses seem to adapt well to air transport. The transitional stages appeared to result in increased agitation, but did not occur or last long enough to be considered a welfare concern.