Moscow Friday lifted a temporary ban on air travel for Russian citizens to Turkey imposed over fears of unrest after a failed coup in the country

Moscow Friday lifted a temporary ban on air travel for Russian citizens to Turkey imposed over fears of unrest after a failed coup in the country.

"From July 22, 2016 regular air connections for all airlines making flights from the territory of Russia to Turkey are reestablished," the transport ministry said in a statement released overnight.

Moscow blocked Russian citizens from flying to Turkey Saturday in the wake of a bloody coup attempt that rocked the country and President Vladimir Putin ordered officials to help holidaymakers return home.

Airlines cancelled flights over the weekend before restarting air travel only for non-Russian citizens.

The ministry said the decision to lift the restrictions was taken "after receiving assurances from the Turkish side on urgent measures taken for the increased security of Russian citizens".

Flagship carrier Aeroflot confirmed that it had started allowing Russian citizens onto its regular flights to Turkey from 00:00 Friday (21:00 GMT Thursday).

"Aeroflot is restarting carrying Russian citizens and the sale of tickets to Turkey," the company said in a statement.