An air hostess calmed angry passengers during a heated row before take-off, almost delaying the flight in China.

Tensions escalated between two families on a Hainan Airlines flight at Haikou Meilan International Airport on April 22, after a toddler's tantrum disrupted the cabin.

A witness recalled that the child was unable to sit still and repeatedly touched the seat of the passenger in front, which led to frustration.

The passenger, visibly upset, then shouted at both the child and the elderly man seated behind her.

Footage shows the woman and the elderly man arguing, while three flight attendants worked to deescalate the verbal confrontation.

After a few minutes of mediation, the crew moved the family to different seats, allowing the flight to depart without further delay.

The child's parents later explained they would have gladly cooperated if approached politely.