Tail Strike During Landing on Gravel Runway

Accident Overview

A twin turboprop airplane was landing on a gravel runway. The normal glide path to the runway is obstructed by a hill, which requires a steeper than normal approach. During the landing, the pilot over-rotated in the flare, causing the tail to strike the runway surface. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the lower aft fuselage.

Pilot Account

The pilot reported that he misjudged the wind conditions and the rate of descent on final approach. He stated that there were no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The pilot did not specify any other contributing factors.

Damage

The tail strike caused substantial damage to the lower aft fuselage of the airplane. No other damage was reported.