An Adelaide mother is demanding answers from China Southern Airlines after her autistic son was removed from a flight just minutes before takeoff.

Nzaifa Fatima says her family was left humiliated when they were ordered off the plane, with her 10-year-old son simply showing his excitement ahead of a dream trip to Pakistan.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Autistic boy removed from flight sparks discrimination claims

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The family had settled into their seats, ready to fly overseas to visit relatives and celebrate her daughter’s 14th birthday.

“My daughter’s 14th birthday and it was all organised, they were all excited,” Fatima said.

But her autistic son’s excitement sparked a complaint from other passengers.

“His non-verbals were uttering noises and excited and laughing a bit loudly,” she said.

The family was off to Pakistan for a holiday. Credit: 7NEWS

Fatima reassured staff her son would settle once they were airborne, but instead the family was escorted off the plane and back to the terminal, where their luggage was handed back.

“It felt like I’m like some kind of criminal. I was kind of scared and shocked. I was in disbelief,” she said.

Fatima says China Southern Airlines refused to put them on another flight and provided no documentation about a voucher or refund.

“No one helped us afterwards. No documentation was provided that we will give you a voucher or refund,” she said.

The family says they’ve travelled with other airlines before without a problem.

Nzaifa Fatima says they were refused to be put on another flight. Credit: 7NEWS

They’re now demanding China Southern explain why their autistic son was treated this way and want their money back.

Autism SA says greater understanding is needed across the travel sector.

“From Autism SA, we need to build greater understanding across the travel sector and among the travelling public to help make travel more inclusive and accessible,” CEO Lisa Clare said.

“Please consider the people with special needs as well. They also have the equal right to travel and to be treated fairly,” Fatima said.

The airline has not responded to 7NEWS inquiries.