The Rail Accident Investigation Branch announced in a news story published on 29 September 2026 that Andy Lewis has been appointed Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents. Under that reported plan, he would take up the role in November 2026, when Andrew Hall retires after almost five years as Chief Inspector.

In remarks included in the announcement, Lewis said it was a great privilege to take on the role and thanked Hall for what he described as outstanding leadership during a highly successful period for the branch. He said he looked forward to building on RAIB's widely recognised reputation for high-quality, independent safety investigations and to working with colleagues to continue developing and strengthening the branch.

The appointment was reported on 29 September 2026, and the November 2026 start date was given as a planned date in the announcement; it was not stated on that date as having already occurred.