I have been using just myThai drivers license for air and bus travel starting 2 years agonand as recently as 1 week ago. So if it is ok with the Thai government authorities, your argument is with them.
It sounds like you have never been here before. Before my first trip in 2012 I bought a guide book. Sure it costs some bucks, but if you are really serious about spending 1000s to come here, 15-20 bucks is a good investment. read about the country, specific places will list commercial interests who provide, such as scuba diving, elephant rescue parks, etc. You can then email the establishments and see which ones are open. The would be a more thorough job, online you'll most likely hear personal opinions, and good but limited.
I am a little confused. From. your post it sounds like he went in for your 60 day Covid extension. If that’s the case, why do you have to go back in February? No problem getting the Covid extension here in Chiang Mai