Flight passing VERY close

3DataModem

I’m currently on AC801 flying from Dublin to Toronto and about 30 minutes ago another smaller dark-coloured plane (four windows maybe) passed on our left flying in the opposite direction. I can’t have been more than 300-400 feet away horizontally and maybe 50-100 feet below vertically. After it passed the smoke / contrail was very clearly visiblle.

Is it possible to look at FlightRadar or something to see what it was and how close it was?

EchoIndia

A replay on FR24 may show the relevant aircraft. However there are minimum separation standards (1,000 feet vertical separation) whether under radar control or in oceanic airspace and, despite the impression you got, it is virtually certain that these weren't breached. The human eye is unfortunately not a reliable guide in these situations!

3DataModem

I understand. Will definitely look at the replay. I fly a lot and understand the rules: this was remarkable and bizarre.

Tenger

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058405128/flight-passing-very-close

As above, you will immediately think it is very close. Because you are so used to seeing empty skies.
Also the closing speed can trick the eye into misjudging the distances.
About 2 hours after takeoff you would be across the Atlantic, so very little to provide reference.

Jacovs

According to flightradar, the only flight that passed on your left side going opposite direction around 10:00 UTC was BA224, which was also a 787, similar to your plane. But they were at 41 000 feet compared to your 36 000 feet, so it doesnt fit the description. Both aircraft tracks estimated at this point.

At 09:45 UTC there was a Westjet WS34 737 that passed a bit closer, but to your right. They were at 35 000 feet to your 36 000 feet. Its worth noting at that point the Westjet track was estimated, so they could well have been on your left.

At 09:52 UTC there was an AA194 777 that passed to your right also. They were at 39 000 feet to your 36 000 feet. At that point both aircraft tracks were estimated, so again couldve been on your left, but the height doesnt match.

3DataModem

To my eye it was a dark coloured (black) smaller plane, military almost, but totally aware it could have been a lot further away and larger. BA/AA/WJ are all very light livery so I'd bet my bottom dollar it wasn't one of those. I fly a lot and I just never saw anything that (apparently) close.

Thanks for the perspectives and insight.

Jacovs

Very possible it couldve been something thats not showing on flightradar. Private jets, military, etc, far as im aware they can switch it off if they want to.