Incident Overview
During a landing on a gravel-covered beach, the pilot of a commercial aircraft reported that the tail of the airplane struck something, possibly a rock. The flight was conducted under Title 14, CFR Part 91 and was carrying lodge guests.
Damage
A postflight inspection revealed substantial damage to the leading edge of the left horizontal stabilizer and the left elevator assembly. The extent of the damage necessitated repairs before the aircraft could be returned to service.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The aircraft had been functioning normally prior to the landing, and the strike occurred during the landing maneuver on the beach surface.