Case Study: Trusted Expertise & Custom Tooling Innovation for AirTran Airways

Client Overview

Name: Michael W. Barnett
Title: Senior Aircraft Systems Engineer
Company: AirTran Airways
Industry: Commercial Aviation
Focus: Aircraft Systems Engineering, Custom Tooling Development

Michael Barnett is a seasoned aircraft systems engineer with decades of experience in the aviation industry, including long tenures with Northwest Airlines and AirTran Airways. His ongoing collaboration with D Check Developments and its founder, Jeff Barkes, has spanned from the 1990s to the present.

Challenge

Aircraft maintenance teams constantly face evolving challenges:

Complex gear removal and installation needs, especially across diverse commercial and military platforms.
A requirement for safe, efficient, and user-friendly tooling that simplifies maintenance procedures.
The need for custom adapters and support equipment tailored to unique aircraft configurations.
Reliable manufacturing partners who understand both commercial airline and military operational constraints.

Solution

D Check Developments delivered consistent solutions through:

The Omni Arm, a modular landing gear removal and installation tool known for its adaptability, durability, and operator-friendly design.
Ongoing collaborative development of custom tooling with direct input from Michael and his team.
A deep understanding of industry-specific challenges, thanks to founder Jeff Barkes’ firsthand aviation maintenance experience.
The ability to custom fabricate adapters to meet both commercial and military applications.

Results

Multi-decade partnership

Multi-decade partnership rooted in trust, quality, and innovation.

Safe and efficient maintenance

Equipment that supports safe and efficient maintenance while being adaptable across aircraft models.

Ground support equipment and machine shop fabrication

A go-to resource for ground support equipment and machine shop fabrication needs.

Continuous Growth

Continuous growth of both D Check’s capabilities and client base, driven by strong customer relationships.

Client Testimonial

“I am happy to provide a reference for D-Check Development, Inc., manufacturer of the Omni Arm.

Jeff’s experience allows him to understand the environment and challenges the industry faces and apply this knowledge to create some of the best user-friendly tooling available.

I am confident you will find the Omni Arm an innovative tool that will serve you well for many years, providing a safe, efficient means to remove and install landing gear assemblies.

Jeff can provide additional custom-made adapters for your military operations, and I’m happy to recommend him to anyone seeking ground support equipment or machine shop fabrication work.”

— Michael W. Barnett, Senior Aircraft Systems Engineer, AirTran Airways

About D Check Developments

D Check Developments, Inc. is a Georgia-based aviation tooling company that specializes in customized, heavy-duty ground support equipment. Led by industry veteran Jeff Barkes, D Check provides innovative, user-centered solutions trusted by commercial airlines, MROs, and military operations worldwide.