The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has announced the appointment of Andy Lewis as its next Chief Inspector of Rail Accidents, succeeding Andrew Hall when he retires in November 2026 after nearly five years in the role.
Currently serving as Deputy Chief Inspector, Lewis will take the helm at a pivotal time for the organisation, bringing almost three decades of rail industry experience and nearly 20 years with RAIB.
Commenting on his appointment, Lewis said:
“It is a great privilege to take on the role of Chief Inspector. I would like to thank Andrew Hall for his outstanding leadership during a highly successful period for RAIB. I look forward to building on the Branch’s widely recognised reputation for delivering high-quality, independent safety investigations and to working with my exceptional colleagues as we continue to develop and strengthen RAIB for the future.”
Lewis began his professional career with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, where he trained as a marine engineer and served as an engineering officer. He later transitioned into the rail sector during the mid-1990s, contributing to major projects that introduced new rolling stock to both the London Underground and the wider mainline railway network.
His career also includes consultancy work focused on rail vehicle safety, as well as managing significant fleet modification programmes. Among these projects was the installation of on-train data recorders, often referred to as ‘black boxes’, across a range of train fleets to enhance operational safety and accident investigation capabilities.
Joining RAIB in 2007 as an Inspector, Lewis has played a key role in numerous rail and tramway investigations across the UK. His progression through the organisation saw him appointed Principal Inspector in 2019, leading teams responsible for complex safety investigations. In 2022, he became Deputy Chief Inspector, taking responsibility for RAIB’s operational investigation teams.
The appointment marks a continuation of RAIB’s commitment to independent accident investigation and continuous improvement in railway safety across Britain. With extensive operational, engineering and investigative experience, Lewis is well placed to lead the organisation as it continues to support learning and safety enhancement across the rail industry.
The transition in November 2026 will also bring to a close Andrew Hall's tenure as Chief Inspector, during which RAIB strengthened its reputation for delivering rigorous, independent investigations that contribute to improving safety standards throughout the rail sector.
Image credit: Rail Accident Investigation Branch
