BRITISH Airways blamed misreporting by the press for the row involving a staff member who refused to hide a crucifix while in uniform.
National newspapers and TV reported the airline had banned the wearing of Christian jewellery and suspended Heathrow check-in worker Nadia Eweida.
But a spokeswoman said: “There is no ban and no suspension. We have a strict uniform policy which states necklaces must be concealed under a cravat or blouse.
“The lady was asked to abide by the policy and put in a grievance. She was given the choice of complying pending the outcome or taking unpaid leave.”
Her appeal is due to be heard in the next week.
Separately, BA has tabled new proposals on pension payments to staff as it struggles to come to terms with a £2 billion pension fund deficit. Unions welcomed the move after calling previous plans “unacceptable”. Talks are expected on Monday.