Jetwing Hotels was built in the 1970s by Herbert Cooray, one of Sri Lanka’s pioneers in tourism. It started when Cooray purchased the Blue Oceanic Hotel in Negombo from its Swedish owner Vingressor. Herbert Cooray named it Jetwing, and that marked the beginning of his now nationwide hotel series. 

In 1981, Herbert also founded Jetwing Travels, sealing a good reputation for his name in the tourism industry of Sri Lanka. Herbert’s son, Hiran Cooray, is the current chairman of Jetwing Hotels. Keeping the brand under the management of family seems to be working well for the company. 

The brand now has several hotels and villas scattered across prime locations in Sri Lanka. The family maintains exclusive ownership and management rights to protect the patriarch of the family and founder of the company’s legacy. 

In 2011, the Blue Oceanic Hotel in Negombo was revamped and overhauled for expansion and overall enhancement. The activity started off as a mere tribute to the patriarch of the Coorays but the $8 million invested in the construction was a huge boost in the revenue of the company. When they launched the finished overhaul, the Jetwing Hotels also released a stronger brand identity that showcases their core values and passion for the business more.