Snowbirds do not help the classic tourist industry. It's the 2 or 3 weeks couple / family tourism that keeps the wheel turning and brings money to the people. And they will be shocked by the inflated ticket fares.
If the average Somchai does the same, ther's a little outcry, maybe. If a foreigner does the same it's a HUGE thing. Don't wanna say that it's nothing but shouldn't they be treated all equally ?
GF drives for almost 30 years, had only one minor accident. Still can't park a car reverse or drive a car with manual gear box. Nothing surprises me here.