Incident Overview
A pilot conducting a public aerial observation flight in a tailwheel-equipped airplane reported an incident during takeoff from an off-airport gravel airstrip. According to the pilot, the airplane became airborne quickly after beginning the takeoff roll. Shortly thereafter, the airplane settled back onto the airstrip in a tail-low attitude, but the pilot elected to continue the takeoff.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that he did not feel or hear any objects strike or damage the aircraft during the sequence. Due to adverse weather conditions, the flight proceeded to an alternate airport without further incident.
Postflight Examination
A postflight examination of the airplane revealed leading edge damage and a hole in the left horizontal stabilizer. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.