Basically, we buy the pup a ticket on the plane. This generally means that the puppy only has to be at the airport about 1 hour before the plane leaves, we check him in at the office. About 30 minutes before the flight leaves he is taken to the plane by an airline employee. The Maltese or Yorkie puppy travels in a little pet taxi, like the ones you purchase at the pet store with the little metal door and a suitcase handle on top. The puppy travels in the pressurized, temperature controlled part of the plane. When the plane lands, an employee carries the puppy into the office of your airport. You should be there when the plane lands. You must present I.D. to prove you are the person I sent the puppy to. No one else can claim your dog.