From Ethiad customer services (when I enquired how to book the route)
''Unfortunately the launch of our Manchester service has had to be delayed, as we still await confirmation of aircraft delivery dates from the manufacturers. As soon as we receive this information, we will publish the schedule and fares, which will be posted on our website. Although we do not yet have a confirmed date, the latest information I have is that it is likely to be some time after May 2006.
I apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. In the meantime, we offer a service via Heathrow, in conjunction with our code-share partner bmi''