The commission, any member thereof, the director or any officer or employee of the commission designated by it, shall have the power to hold investigations, inquiries and hearings concerning matters covered by the provisions of this chapter and the rules, regulations and orders of the commission, and concerning accidents in aeronautics within this state. Hearings shall be open to the public, and, except as provided in this chapter, shall be held upon such call or notice as the commission shall deem advisable. Each member of the commission, the director and every officer or employee of the commission designated by it to hold any inquiry, investigation or hearing shall have the power to administer oaths and affirmations, certify to all official acts, issue subpoenas, and order the attendance and testimony of witnesses and the production of papers, books and documents. In case of the failure of any person to comply with any subpoena or order issued under the authority of this section, the commission or its authorized representative may invoke the aid of any court of this state of general jurisdiction. The court may thereupon order such person to comply with the requirements of the subpoena or order or to give evidence touching the matter in question. Failure to obey the order of the court may be punished by the court as a contempt thereof.