Incident Details
During a climb to an assigned altitude, the co-pilot was flying the aircraft. Air traffic control directed the flight to expedite their climb through flight level 250. In response, the co-pilot adjusted the speed bug to 300 knots. The pilot-in-command (PIC) then verbally instructed the co-pilot to "get this thing climbing." Simultaneously, the PIC pulled back on the control column and disconnected the autopilot, causing the airplane's nose to pitch up. The PIC did not establish a positive transfer of flight controls as required by company standard operating procedures.
Events Following the Maneuver
Shortly after the maneuver, the flight attendant was heard calling for help from the rear of the aircraft. The PIC left the flight deck and found the flight attendant on the floor in the aft part of the cabin with serious injuries. The flight continued to the destination airport and landed without further incident.