Recently, Sunway Charters faced a situation every charter company might encounter—but their response earned special recognition from a client.

Driver Alex was on his way to pick up Grand Strand Young Life of Myrtle Beach for their trip to Carolina Point, a Young Life Camp, when he spotted damage to one of the bus tires during his pre-trip inspection. Although staying on schedule is crucial at Sunway, passenger safety always comes first.

Without hesitation, Alex took the bus out of service and handed it over to the maintenance team. Meanwhile, Sunway Terminal Manager Terri called the group leader to explain the delay and reassure them that their safety was the top priority.

Rebecca, the Young Life group leader, expressed her gratitude, saying, “The bus worked great, and we appreciated that there was a vehicle pre-check so they could get a tire changed out before they got to us.”

A Commitment to Comprehensive Inspections

At Sunway, safety starts with meticulous pre- and post-trip inspections. Using a phone app, drivers follow a detailed checklist that covers every aspect of the vehicle — from mechanical systems like brakes and tires to ensuring safety items like fire extinguishers and reflective triangles are in place. Drivers also document their inspections with photos and report any issues immediately, ensuring no defect goes unnoticed.

Post-trip inspections provide an added layer of accountability, allowing drivers to note any problems experienced during the trip. Any safety defect takes the bus out of service until repairs are completed.

Regular Maintenance and Thorough Inspections

In addition to daily checks, Sunway’s 90-day inspection program ensures vehicles undergo a bumper-to-bumper evaluation by the maintenance team. Over 100 components are inspected, including brakes, lighting, wheelchair lifts, and even onboard amenities like toilets and DVD players.

Routine preventative maintenance, such as oil and filter changes, keeps vehicles running smoothly, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for passengers.

Ongoing Training for Excellence

Sunway’s commitment to safety extends beyond its vehicles to its people. All drivers, mechanics, and shop staff participate in quarterly safety meetings that address topics like Hours-of-Service regulations, passenger safety, and fueling protocols.

Drivers also engage in continuing education through a Learning Management System, completing tailored courses on defensive driving, safety protocols, and more — all designed to keep their skills sharp and their passengers safe.

Sunway’s Philosophy: Safety, Reliability, and Care

At Sunway Charters, safety isn’t just a policy, it’s a way of life. From rigorous inspections and preventative maintenance to ongoing driver training, every step is designed to protect what matters most: our passengers. We believe the journey is as important as the destination, and by prioritizing safety and reliability, we ensure every trip is a positive and memorable experience.