Thai AirAsia X (XJ, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi) has been approved for its Air Operator Licence by the Department of Civil Aviation of Thailand. Pending further approvals, the airline plans to launch operations during the first quarter of 2014 thereby becoming the first long-haul LCC based out of Bangkok Don Mueang. The new airline is a joint venture between AirAsia X (D7, Kuala Lumpur International) (49%) and two Thai businessmen: Tassapon Bijleveld (CEO of Thai AirAsia (FD, Bangkok Don Mueang)) (41%) and Julpas Kruesopon (10%). AirAsia X CEO Azran Osman-Rani said initial focus would be paid on serving destinations in North Asia and Australia where AirAsia X has already built up brand awareness and operating bases, to speed up market penetration. The establishment of a base in the Thai capital marks the first international hub for Air Asia X outside Kuala Lumpur International.