Revenue Recognition - Changes in Loyalty Program Liability (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 12,864
Ending balance	$ 14,335
Inactive period before expiration of mileage credits	18 months
Current loyalty program liability	$ 3,176	$ 3,121
Loyalty program liability [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8,822
Deferral of revenue	865
Recognition of revenue	(901)
Ending balance	8,786
American Airlines, Inc. [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	12,864
Ending balance	$ 14,335
Inactive period before expiration of mileage credits	18 months
Current loyalty program liability	$ 3,176	$ 3,121
American Airlines, Inc. [Member] | Loyalty program liability [Member]
Movement In Contract With Customer, Liability [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	8,822
Deferral of revenue	865
Recognition of revenue	(901)
Ending balance	$ 8,786