Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2012
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities	$ 3,373	$ 1,926
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Flight Equipment, Including Advance Payments	(1,276)	(885)
Ground Property and Equipment, Including Technology	(340)	(545)
Purchase of Virgin Atlantic shares	(360)	0
Purchase of Short-Term Investments	(719)	(719)
Redemption of Short-Term Investments	869	757
Other Investing Activities, Net	18	(37)
Net Cash Used in Investing Activities	(1,808)	(1,429)
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Payments on Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations	(968)	(1,410)
Cash Dividends	(51)	0
Proceeds from Long-term Obligations	68	480
Repurchase of Common Stock	(93)	0
Fuel Card Obligation	90	73
Other Financing Activities, net	(9)	(23)
Net Cash Used in Financing Activities	(963)	(880)
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and Cash Equivalents	602	(383)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	2,416	2,657
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	3,018	2,274
Other Noncash Investing and Financing Items [Abstract]
SkyMiles Used Pursuant to Advance Purchase Under American Express Agreements	250	250
Build-to-Suit Leased Facilities	$ 103	$ 141