"I called the chairman (Naresh Goyal) on Thursday morning to meet me in Hyderabad... I had also told him that in 24 hours, we must find a resolution to this problem otherwise we in the ministry would certainly not be very happy with the approach of Jet Airways," he said.

At a press conference late on Thursday night, Goyal had said the reinstatement decision was "not under political pressure and I have not met anybody... There was no internal or external pressure."

"I am happy that people have got back their jobs. I had spoken to Jet Airways chairman Naresh Goyal on the issue. I am glad that they have reversed their decision," said Patel, who had earlier on Wednesday dubbed the decision as a corporate matter.

Seeking to wriggle out of a financial mess, Jet on Wednesday fired 1,900 probationary staff who were hired for proposed expansion plans, which have since been put on hold.

The layoff decision was expected to help the airline save $1 million a month, but evoked strong condemnation from unions and politicians.

Firebrand politician Raj Thackeray had warned that his Maharashtra Navnirman Sena would ground Jet flights in Mumbai if the sack order was not reconsidered.