Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $) In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Current Assets [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 2,699	$ 2,844
Short-term investments	959	959
Restricted cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments	125	122
Accounts receivable, net of an allowance for uncollectible accounts	2,042	1,609
Fuel inventory	600	706
Expendable parts and supplies inventories, net of an allowance for obsolescence	348	357
Deferred income taxes, net	1,764	1,736
Prepaid expenses and other	1,209	1,318
Total current assets	9,746	9,651
Property and Equipment, Net [Abstract]
Property and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization	21,972	21,854
Other Assets [Abstract]
Goodwill	9,794	9,794
Identifiable intangibles, net of accumulated amortization	4,642	4,658
Deferred income taxes, net	4,854	4,992
Other noncurrent assets	1,159	1,303
Total other assets	20,449	20,747
Total assets	52,167	52,252
Current Liabilities [Abstract]
Current maturities of long-term debt and capital leases	1,578	1,547
Air traffic liability	5,643	4,122
Accounts payable	2,341	2,300
Accrued salaries and related benefits	1,455	1,926
Frequent flyer deferred revenue	1,742	1,861
Taxes payable	810	673
Fuel card obligation	604	602
Other accrued liabilities	837	1,121
Total current liabilities	15,010	14,152
Noncurrent liabilities
Long-term debt and capital leases	9,466	9,795
Pension, postretirement and related benefits	11,811	12,392
Frequent flyer deferred revenue	2,527	2,559
Other noncurrent liabilities	1,712	1,711
Total noncurrent liabilities	25,516	26,457
Commitments and Contingencies
Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock	0	0
Additional paid-in capital	13,876	13,982
Retained earnings	3,211	3,049
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	(5,139)	(5,130)
Treasury stock, at cost	(307)	(258)
Total stockholders' equity	11,641	11,643
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$ 52,167	$ 52,252