Originally Posted by
DaveReidUK
Except that, in a way, they are:
"however, we cannot offer any guarantee of confidentiality or immunity, and the transcription of this interview will eventually be made part of the public docket for this investigation"
We shouldn't underestimate the influence of The Court of Public Opinion, or more specifically that of the experts (and "experts") in the media, who will be all over the testimony once it's in the public domain.
The bolded is the key takeaway from the NTSB position. Without beating the dead horse too much, the way it goes is the feds want pilots to testify, in person, with recordings and failing to do that, one will be subpoenaed. And, when forced into the venue(court, hearing room, whatever), will be sworn in, and then will give testimony, and that testimony may be the fount of a civil or criminal case, as the NTSB lawyers decide. As professional pilots on here, be careful who you choose to hang out to dry. Someday, it may be your turn on the clothesline.