Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 216; Flight Crew Total 12000; Flight Crew Type 5500
Confusion; Other / Unknown
ATC Issue All Types; Conflict NMAC; Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Published Material / Policy
General None Reported / Taken
Human Factors; Procedure
Cleared for takeoff on RWY 28R at SFO; we could see and hear a helicopter hovering at approximately 150 feet on the northwest corner of the intersection of the runways; although the Tower did not notify us of the traffic. The helicopter was questioning the Tower about where he should go - although I'm a bit unclear on the questions.  We were busy with a takeoff at the time. With the acceleration of the plane and the changing point of view it is difficult to tell; but after consideration I believe the helicopter was drifting south towards our runway. After takeoff; as best we can tell; we passed within about 500 feet laterally and 200 feet vertically from the helicopter. I do not know the standards for a near mid-air in this portion of the flight and airspace; and the Tower did not mention anything. However; I have flagged this as a near mid-air on the report due to my discomfort with the event. I do not want this to happen again; it was too close for my comfort.
B737 Captain reports a possible NMAC with a helicopter during takeoff from runway 28R at SFO. The helicopter was north of Runway 28R hovering; and apparently drifting south.