When Joao Simoes left his home country of Brazil at just 22 years old, he carried little more than $500 in his pocket and the determination to build a better future. He started painting houses in Florida, but quickly realized he wanted more for his life. That decision set him on a journey that would eventually shape Davenport Aviation into what it is today.

Joao later moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he met his future wife, Leah, who was attending The Ohio State University. The two married in 2005 and moved to Washington, D.C., where Leah began her career in human resources. During this time, Joao pursued his degree in International Business at Strayer University, a step that opened the door to his first aviation sales role. Sales came naturally to him, but he soon realized he wanted to do things his own way.

Together, Joao and Leah founded Davenport Aviation, naming the company after the street where their first apartment in Washington, D.C., was located. Shortly after, they moved back to Columbus to put down roots and grow the business. Starting from scratch, Joao even traveled to Africa in search of opportunities. While still under a non-compete agreement that prevented him from approaching former clients, he eventually secured Davenport’s first customer: a small domestic airline in Angola.

That first contract provided the momentum Davenport needed. The partnership gave the company the capital to expand its network, build credibility, and pursue new clients. Through persistence, resilience, and a willingness to learn everything from the ground up, Joao and Leah grew Davenport Aviation into a trusted name in the aviation industry.

Today, Davenport Aviation proudly serves clients across the globe. The company continues to support commercial airlines in Africa while also leading the way in Rapid Procurement of Rotary-Wing Aircraft for government and public safety agencies. From those humble beginnings, Davenport has grown into a market leader—recognized for integrity, agility, and a steadfast commitment to helping its customers achieve their missions.