A fight between passengers erupted on a flight in China, causing take-off to be delayed for two hours.

The altercation unfolded in front of shocked travellers aboard flight ZH9539 as the plane prepped to taxi on Monday, April 1.

Onlookers said that the heated argument began over body odour and perfume, escalating into a physical confrontation.

One passenger is said to have complained to cabin crew about the smell of another, leading to angry scenes when they overheard.

Dramatic footage shows crew members intervening to break up the violent dispute on the cramped single-aisle Airbus A320 operated by Shenzhen Airlines.

Local media said that a distressed flight attendant was bitten by one of the agitated passengers while trying to stop the catfight. Some passengers who attempted to intervene also suffered scratches.

Police were called to remove the aggressive individuals, who refused to calm down.

The flight from Shenzhen to Jingdezhen was delayed due to the incident.

Flightradar24 reported that the aircraft was scheduled to depart at 5:45 pm. However, it took off at 7:56 pm and landed at 9:15 pm.

Shenzhen Airlines confirmed that an investigation is underway.