Significant Accounting Policies (Schedule Of Information Related To Amounts Recorded Related To Frequent Flyer Programs) (Details) (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011		Dec. 31, 2010		Dec. 31, 2011 United Airlines Inc [Member]		Dec. 31, 2010 United Airlines Inc [Member]		Dec. 31, 2009 UAL And United [Member]		Dec. 31, 2011 Continental Successor [Member]		Dec. 31, 2010 Continental Successor [Member]
Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items]
Cash Proceeds from Miles Sold	$ 3,171	[1]	$ 2,156	[1]	$ 1,823		$ 1,863		$ 1,703		$ 1,348		$ 293
Other Revenue Recognized Upon Award of Miles to Third-Party Customers	566	[1],[2]	331	[1],[2]	376	[2]	300	[2]	256	[2]	190	[2]	31	[2]
Increase in Frequent Flyer Deferred Revenue for Miles Awarded	2,407	[1],[3]	1,739	[1],[3]	1,249	[3]	1,477	[3]	1,377	[3]	1,158	[3]	262	[3]
Net Increase In Advanced Purchase of Miles	$ 198	[1],[4]	$ 86	[1],[4]	$ 198	[4]	$ 86	[4]	$ 70	[4]				[4]

[1] Continental's results are included in UAL's results from October 1, 2010 to December 31, 2011.

[2] This amount represents other revenue recognized during the period from the sale of miles to third parties, representing the marketing services component of the sale.

[3] This amount represents the increase to frequent flyer deferred revenue during the period.

[4] This amount represents the net increase in the advance purchase of miles obligation due to cash payments for the sale of miles in excess of miles awarded to customers.