The invention provides methods, systems, and products for communicating between engine computers without the participation of a flight deck computer. The invention allows the engine computers to coordinate activities for real-time control of the engines for improved efficiency using an existing ARINC 429 communications bus. The invention facilitates cross-engine communications over the same ARINC 429 communications bus used for communicating with the Flight Deck Computer, without installation of a second, dedicated communications bus for cross-engine communications. The invention thus provides a cost effective way to allow the engines to coordinate activities without expensive installation and recertification of airframe modifications.