Extreme weather events, geopolitical conflicts, or other extraordinary developments can force tour operators to make complex decisions at very short notice. How professional crisis management is conducted under these circumstances will be one of the topics on the agenda of the RTG Summit, to be held in Mainz on October 9, 2026.

Melanie Gerhardt, who serves as DERTOUR Group Director Crisis Management, will share her experiences regarding the behind-the-scenes practices of crisis management within the scope of rtk Dialogtage. In her speech titled “Krisen richtig kommunizieren” (Communicate Crises Correctly), drawing on experiences gained from real events, she will explain how to prepare for potential future crises.

Over 25 Years of Experience in Global Crises

For over 25 years, Gerhardt has been working in crisis management in various extraordinary situations, from extreme weather conditions to geopolitical developments. Together with her team, she coordinates the travel group's operations during crises that arise in different parts of the world.

This process is not limited to operational decisions alone. Communication also constitutes one of the fundamental elements of crisis management. In critical situations, information must be rapidly assessed, decisions clearly communicated, and passengers and business partners reliably informed about current developments.

Technology and Artificial Intelligence are Changing Crisis Management

At the RTG Summit, Gerhardt will also address the opportunities offered by modern technologies and artificial intelligence in crisis management. Especially in rapidly evolving events with a large flow of information, digital systems can support analysis and coordination processes.

The focus of the speech will be on practical experiences gained from real crises. Participants will have the opportunity to learn how decisions are prepared under time pressure and what conclusions can be drawn from past events for future crises.

RTG Summit Brings Tourism Sector Together in Mainz

The RTG Summit is being held as part of the rtk Dialogtage 2026 program. The event combines expert presentations with industry discussions and personal meetings.

At a time when extreme weather events and geopolitical uncertainties are increasingly directly affecting the travel sector, crisis communication is also gaining more importance in the daily work of tour operators and travel agencies. Image: © Image generated with artificial intelligence